Formula 1 is set to return to Africa for the first time in more than three decades, after the signing of a 10-year deal to host the Grand Prix in Rwanda in the early 2030s.
The proposed Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, will take place at a new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, in the country’s Eastern Province, about 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kigali, and near the new Kigali International Airport.
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The last Formula 1 race on the continent was held at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993. F1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali says the sport has been working for years to find the right partner to support its return to Africa.
“Today is a landmark moment for Formula 1. With Rwanda joining the calendar from the next decade, our sport will race in every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer than ever to fans around the globe,” said Domenicali.
“Africa has always been part of Formula 1’s future, and from the beginning we were determined to return in the right way, with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision for creating meaningful impact.
“I would like to thank His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and everyone whose dedication and collaboration have made this possible.”
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Meanwhile, the long-term agreement will see the first race in the country take place once a new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda, has been completed, which is expected to be early in the next decade.
According to Formula 1, the new track will be developed to FIA Grade 1 standards as part of a wider sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial development project led by the Rwanda Development Board.
Beyond race weekends, the venue will serve as a year-round destination capable of hosting international motorsport, major events, conferences and entertainment, helping to drive long-term economic growth and investment across the region.