Rwanda Secures 10-Year Deal for African Grand Prix in the Early 2030s
Formula 1 is set to make its return to the African continent with Rwanda hosting a Grand Prix from the early 2030s, as part of a decade-long agreement. Rwanda's strategic location and the innovative circuit design promise to make it a standout venue in the F1 calendar.
Formula 1 will once again race on African soil, starting in the early 2030s, thanks to a landmark agreement with Rwanda to host an African Grand Prix for a decade. This significant development was announced by F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, who hailed it as a pivotal moment in the sport's history. The endeavor to bring F1 back to Africa has been ongoing for some time, with Rwanda now providing the ideal setting.
Historically, only Morocco and South Africa have hosted F1 World Championship events, with Morocco's single appearance in 1958 and South Africa's last race in 1993. Rwanda, however, has been emerging as a sporting hub, having hosted the FIA Awards in 2024 and the UCI Cycling World Championships in 2025. The introduction of an F1 Grand Prix is seen as a key step in establishing Rwanda as a sports and entertainment destination within Africa.
President Paul Kagame emphasized the broader significance of this project, noting that African athletes have historically contributed greatly to global sports yet reaped limited benefits. "Partnerships like the one we are building help break this cycle," Kagame stated, highlighting the potential for increased African participation.
Rwanda's ambitions are not limited to the nation itself but extend to involving the entire continent. The 10-year contract not only allows for the development of the circuit but also aims to enhance the sport's presence across Africa, with expectations of significant economic impact.
Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, stressed the inclusive vision behind naming the event the African Grand Prix rather than tying it solely to Rwanda. This approach is intended to help attract partners and potentially inspire further races on the continent.
The venue for this future Grand Prix will be a new circuit in Bugesera, an area known for its stunning landscapes within the Great Rift Valley. Designed by Carsten Tilke and former F1 driver Alex Wurz, the track promises to take full advantage of the natural terrain, described as "a picture-perfect African Rwanda landscape" by Wurz.
The planned 6km circuit will feature 17 corners and significant elevation changes, creating a challenging and exciting track for drivers and spectators alike. Wurz, who has extensively tested the design in simulators, promises a "drivers’ track" that will offer thrilling races.
Spectator experience is a priority, with plans for facilities that bring fans close to the action, while the site will also host concerts and other events. The track's location at around 1,500 meters above sea level will present unique challenges, including reduced aerodynamic grip, which are being addressed in the design process.
Overall, Rwanda's entry into the F1 calendar marks a significant step not only for the country but for the broader effort to reestablish Formula 1's presence in Africa. The project is set to catalyze further development, aiming to create a legacy that extends beyond the borders of Rwanda.