Rwanda will host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the early 2030s, as part of a ten-year agreement announced on Tuesday, by F1 officials and Rwandan authorities – marking the championship’s return to the African continent.
The announcement was made in Kigali in the presence of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, International Automobile Federation (FIA) head Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
In a statement posted on social media, Formula 1 confirmed the conclusion of a ten-year deal with Rwanda to host an African Grand Prix, with its inclusion in the race calendar slated for the early
2030s.
The race is set to take place on a circuit to be built in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, near the site of a future international airport.
The date for the inaugural event and a detailed timeline for the construction of the necessary infrastructure have yet to be specified.
The last Formula 1 Grand Prix held in Africa took place in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit in South Africa. The continent also hosted a race in Morocco in 1958.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame described the agreement as “an important milestone for the entire continent, especially for African fans,” adding that his country hopes this competition will pave the way for further races across Africa.
For Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the championship’s return represents “a historic moment” for motorsport, while Stefano Domenicali emphasised Formula 1’s commitment to a long-term presence on the continent.
Rwandan authorities view the project as a means to boost tourism, attract investment, and foster training opportunities for young people in motorsport-related professions.
The circuit must also be designed to meet FIA standards.
SS/te/fss/as/APA