F1 Secures Decade-Long Deal to Host Grand Prix in Rwanda
Formula 1 is officially set to make its historic return to the African continent after securing a landmark ten-year agreement to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda. Scheduled to join the global racing calendar in the early 2030s, the deal marks a defining milestone for the championship, bringing elite motorsport back to African soil for the first time since 1993. The announcement fulfills a long-standing ambition for Formula 1 to establish a true presence across every inhabited continent, while simultaneously positioning Rwanda as a premier global hub for sports, tourism, and innovation.
The core of this ambitious partnership centers on the construction of a brand-new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, located approximately 40 kilometers south of Kigali and adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport. Developed to FIA Grade 1 standards by the Rwanda Development Board, the track will incorporate the region’s natural elevation shifts to offer a dynamic, challenging course for drivers and exceptional viewpoints for spectators. Designed as a year-round destination, the venue will accommodate international motorsport, major conventions, and entertainment gatherings, helping to stimulate long-term regional economic growth and infrastructure expansion.
The return to Africa aligns directly with Formula 1’s strategy to connect with rapidly growing, youthful demographics across the globe. Sub-Saharan Africa represents a vibrant market where nearly 60 percent of the region’s 100 million Formula 1 fans are under the age of 35. Building upon Rwanda’s successful track record of hosting high-profile international gatherings, including the UCI Road World Championships and the FIA General Assemblies, this ten-year venture aims to leave a lasting legacy. By combining world-class sporting excellence with economic opportunity, the partnership opens a transformative new chapter for motorsport on the continent, inspiring future generations of drivers, engineers, and enthusiasts for decades to come.
