Hamilton pushes for race in Africa

LEWIS Hamilton has called for a movement to “take Africa back”, claiming the continent is being “controlled” by European powers.

- By Rory Dollard, PA

Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton at Albert Park, in Melbourne, yesterday

(AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)

Speaking on the cusp of the new Formula One season, the seven-time champion outlined his ambition to compete in a grand prix on African soil before the end of his career.

But the 41-year-old Briton, F1’s first black race driver, did not stop there. He suggested former colonial rulers still exerted undue power in the region and called for action to reverse that influence.

The Ferrari driver told reporters in Melbourne: “I've got roots from a few different places there, like Togo and Benin. I’m really proud of that part of the world.