Rwanda has signed a 10-year agreement with Formula 1 to host a race in the country from the early 2030s, paving the way for the sport’s return to Africa for the first time since 1993.
The race, to be known as the African Grand Prix, will take place on a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of the capital, Kigali, and close to the city’s new international airport.
Designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, the circuit will use the area’s elevation changes to create a challenging racing experience while offering spectators wide viewing opportunities. Formula 1 says the project follows years of collaboration to establish the foundations for a sustainable, world-class event.
The agreement is part of F1’s efforts to expand its presence in Africa, a market where the championship has had limited exposure compared with Europe, Asia and the Americas.
The race’s position on the annual calendar has not yet been determined. Organisers are expected to avoid Rwanda’s main rainy season, which runs from March to May, although the country experiences a shorter rainy period between October and November.
Formula 1 is also committed to keeping its season to a maximum of 24 races, meaning the addition of the African Grand Prix will require careful consideration of the existing calendar.
Rwanda’s involvement has attracted scrutiny, with the country previously accused of using major sporting events to improve its international image amid criticism of its human rights record.
President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement, describing it as a significant moment for the continent.
“For more than three decades, the world’s premier motorsport championship has raced without this continent, and that changes with this agreement,” Kagame said.
