Formula 1 Announces Historic Return to Africa with Rwanda Grand Prix in Early 2030s

Formula 1 will return to Africa for the first time in more than three decades, with Rwanda set to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, under a 10-year agreement beginning in the early 2030s.

The race will take place at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kigali. Formula 1 said the track is expected to be ready in the early part of the next decade, although an exact date for the inaugural race has not been announced.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement at a launch event in Kigali, describing it as a significant milestone for Africa and its motorsport fans. He said the country was proud to share the event with more than 100 million fans across the continent.

Kagame also highlighted the potential long-term benefits of the project, including employment, tourism, skills development and business opportunities for Rwanda and the surrounding region.

Rwanda formally announced its bid to host a Grand Prix in December 2024, when Kigali hosted an event organised by the FIA, motorsport’s governing body. Former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz has been involved in the proposed circuit’s design through his company, WurzDesign.

The announcement is particularly significant for Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion who has repeatedly advocated for Formula 1 to return to Africa.

The continent last hosted a Formula 1 World Championship race at the South African Grand Prix in 1993.

Formula 1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali called the agreement a landmark moment, emphasising the sport’s commitment to a sustainable, long-term partnership.

The planned race would enable Formula 1 to compete on every inhabited continent, strengthening its global reach while bringing international motorsport back to African audiences.