Lewis Hamilton gave deadline to find out if F1's wish has been granted

Lewis Hamilton will find out if his F1 wish has been granted before the end of this year when sporting bosses announce the Grand Prix schedule for the 2023 season. The Mercedes driver has previously explained he hopes F1 will return in South Africa, the country which last held a race almost 30 years ago.

F1 chief Stefano Domenicali is busy planning next season and told Liberty Media investors on Friday that the 2023 calendar would be confirmed "around early October". And the Italian hinted that an African race could be considered. “We would like to keep the right flow in terms of efficiency around the world, to accommodate the needs of a calendar that spans from March to November around the world,” he added.

>

"The demand is very, very high. We can't [say] anything more than we say because we are, of course, finalizing all the details. But of course we expect to have a few more races than this year, but less than 25, that's for sure."

There are 22 Grands Prix this season but, following Domenicali's comments, F1 fans will be licking their lips at the prospect of watching even more races next time.

READ MORE: Wolff 'endorses' Alonso transfer as Hamilton replacement theory comes forward

The last South African Grand Prix was held in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit, which is currently used for GT racing. And last month, Domenicali reportedly traveled to the country to strike a return deal.

Hamilton's position on the race in Africa has been clear for some time and earlier this year the 37-year-old told reporters: "I think it's important for the sport to go there If they're on every other continent, why not?

“The one I really, really want to see is South Africa. It’s the one I want to hear next that is announced. that's why it's important to me personally."

MORE F1 NEWS FIA blunders Piastri McLaren as governing body removes postAlpine boss who calls Piastri's contract 'tight' amid F1 dispute

It was the second time in a few months that Hamilton has spoken about his homecoming after saying last October: "The place that I really feel, in my heart, is the most important to me. is to resume a race in South Africa. I think there's a big following and I think it would be great to highlight how beautiful the homeland is."

Hamilton has endured a difficult season thus far and is currently sixth in the Drivers' Championship standings. But the Stevenage-born ace has improved in recent weeks and has finished on the podium in the last five Grands Prix.