Rwanda has officially been chosen to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, a historic decision that marks the sport’s return to the continent for the first time since 1993. The announcement was made by the sport’s governing body in a press release, detailing plans for the Grand Prix to take place at a newly constructed circuit in Bugesera, situated approximately 25 miles south of Kigali, the capital city.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/f1-rwanda-101326-8e8ab1d63d694830844359ec2bee9fb1.jpg)
The ten-year agreement to host the event is part of a broader initiative led by the Rwanda Development Board aimed at advancing the nation’s tourism, infrastructure, and job creation. Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed his pride in welcoming the event, highlighting that this partnership not only brings the excitement of Formula 1 to Africa but also creates opportunities for young people across 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 stated.
The planned venue is expected to serve not only as a backdrop for high-speed races but also as a significant location for major events, conferences, and entertainment throughout the year. Kagame emphasised the long-term benefits of this initiative, saying, “Our aim was never a single race weekend, but a lasting benefit for our people.”
Formula 1 has confirmed that the specifics related to the race date, circuit development timelines, and event plans will be revealed in due course. It has been suggested that the inaugural race may not take place during Rwanda’s main rainy season, which extends from March to May.
Designed with the insight of former F1 driver Alex Wurz, the new circuit will integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape, utilising the area’s topography to deliver a challenging racing experience while providing outstanding viewing opportunities for fans. The sport’s President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, noted, “With Rwanda joining the calendar, our sport will race in every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer than ever to fans around the globe.”
Historically, Africa hosted several Grand Prix events, including races in Morocco as early as 1958 and multiple races in South Africa during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. The last Grand Prix held on the continent took place at the Kyalami circuit in South Africa in March 1993.
In anticipation of this return, key figures within the motorsport community have voiced their support. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has long been an advocate for a Grand Prix in Africa, stating, “It is, for me, the most important continent and the most beautiful continent.” Hamilton praised the efforts of Domenicali, who has been actively engaging with various stakeholders in Africa.
Max Verstappen, a prominent driver with multiple World Championships, has also shown enthusiasm for the prospect of racing in Rwanda. “We want to race in a lot of different places in the world, so I really hope it can be pushed through,” he remarked, having visited the country previously.
The Rwandan government’s efforts to position the country as a hub for global sports are well-documented. Aside from the upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix, Rwanda has hosted significant events such as the FIFA Congress in 2023 and will hold the FIA General Assemblies and Awards Ceremony in 2024. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, has hailed the return of F1 to Africa as a historic occasion, reaffirming the FIA’s commitment to ensuring that the new circuit meets the highest international standards.
The African Grand Prix presents an exciting opportunity not only for motorsport enthusiasts in Rwanda but for all of Africa, as it aims to inspire greater participation in the sport among young people. By establishing a presence in Africa, F1 hopes to cultivate local talent in various fields related to motorsport, including engineering and entrepreneurship.
As preparations get underway, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark event in the world of motorsport, revitalising interest in F1 across the continent. With Rwanda stepping into the spotlight, the potential for regional growth and international engagement within the motorsport community is now closer than ever.