Hamilton visits Rafah crossing as Gaza aid falls short of targets
The seven-time world champion inspected logistics operations in Egypt while truck numbers into Gaza remain below the 600 daily minimum.
By Riya Zhao ·
Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton traveled to Egypt to inspect the logistics of humanitarian aid entering Gaza. His visit centered on the Rafah border crossing, where he observed how organizations transport supplies into the territory.
The trip comes amid a persistent gap between agreed targets and actual delivery rates. A ceasefire reached last year halted major combat operations, yet the flow of assistance remains insufficient. Recent reports indicate that the number of trucks reaching Gaza is well below the agreed minimum of 600 per day.
Hamilton has used public platforms to voice concerns about regional conflicts, specifically citing the impact of Israeli airstrikes on children. In a statement issued in October, he called for peace in several nations, including Palestine. "I think we need to make sure we're pushing to free Congo, free Sudan, free Syria, free Palestine. I think there's a lot of peace that I'm hoping we get to at some stage," he said.
UN experts reported last month that Israeli military control has expanded from 53% to at least 60% of the territory. The commission noted that airstrikes and fire along the advancing front killed at least 196 Palestinians. The casualties included 18 women, 32 boys, and 11 girls.
During the tour, Hamilton greeted aid workers with the Arabic greeting Assalamu alaikum. He shook hands with local officials while observing the border processes. Khaled Megawer, the governor of North Sinai, stated that the visit was designed to show Hamilton Egypt's specific efforts to support Gaza. Megawer described the trip as an educational opportunity to understand the practical side of humanitarian logistics.
Hamilton arrived in the region following a career milestone. He completed his 400th race start on Sunday at the São Paulo Grand Prix at the Interlagos circuit. This achievement places him in rare company in Formula One history. Alonso reached this number in 2024, making Hamilton the second driver to join that elite group.
Hamilton made his debut with McLaren in 2007. He is the first Black driver in the sport's history. His 400th start marks a specific statistical benchmark that only one other driver has achieved.
