Formula 1 is set to make a historic return to Africa for the first time since 1993, with Rwanda securing a 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix from the early 2030s. The announcement, made by F1 on Tuesday, marks a major step towards fulfilling the championship’s long-standing ambition of bringing the sport back to the continent.
Rwanda to build purpose-built F1 circuit in Bugesera
The race will be held at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, south of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, once construction is completed. The venue is expected to become a major motorsport and entertainment destination, while the return of F1 will bring the world championship to Africa after more than three decades. The last Formula 1 race on the continent was the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami in 1993. Rwanda’s entry into the calendar would also mean that F1 will race across every inhabited continent. The proposed circuit will be located approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport. Construction is expected to be completed in the early 2030s. Beyond hosting Formula 1 race weekends, the facility is planned as a year-round destination for motorsport events, major gatherings, conferences and entertainment. According to F1, the project is intended to support long-term economic growth and investment across Rwanda and the wider region.
Stefano Domenicali calls Rwanda deal a landmark moment
Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment, emphasising the sport’s commitment to returning to Africa through a long-term partnership. "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," Domenicali said. He added that Africa had always been part of Formula 1’s future and that the championship wanted to return with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision for creating a meaningful impact. Domenicali thanked Rwanda President Paul Kagame, the Rwandan government, the Rwanda Development Board, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and others involved in securing the agreement.
Paul Kagame hails historic moment for Africa
Rwanda President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement, describing it as a significant moment for the continent after more than three decades without a Formula 1 race. "Today belongs to Africa. For more than three decades, the world’s premier motorsport championship has raced without this continent, and that changes with this agreement," Kagame said. He added that Rwanda was proud to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix and share the occasion with fans across the continent, particularly young people who could aspire to careers as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs and drivers.
"Our aim was never a single race weekend, but a lasting benefit for our people," he said, referring to the planned circuit and its proximity to the new international airport. The Rwandan president thanked Domenicali, Formula 1 and Ben Sulayem for their role in bringing the agreement to fruition, adding that the country looked forward to welcoming the world for the African Grand Prix.
Inaugural race details awaited
While the 10-year agreement establishes the framework for Formula 1’s return to Africa, the exact date of the inaugural Rwandan Grand Prix remains unconfirmed. Further announcements on circuit development milestones, the race schedule and plans for the event are expected in due course.
