Formula 1 will return to Africa for the first time since 1993 after signing a 10-year contract to host a race in Rwanda starting in the early 2030s.
Key facts
- •The 10-year contract will bring Formula 1 back to Africa for the first time since 1993.
- •The new circuit will be built in Bugesera to meet FIA Grade 1 standards.
- •The agreement was announced at a news conference in Kigali attended by President Paul Kagame and F1 leadership.
- •Rwanda officially launched its bid to host the race in December 2024.
- •The race is currently scheduled to join the calendar in the early 2030s.
Formula 1 has officially announced a 10-year agreement to host an African Grand Prix in Rwanda, marking the sport's return to the continent for the first time in nearly four decades. The deal, confirmed on Tuesday, will see the race held on a new, purpose-built circuit currently planned for Bugesera. The project aims to bring Formula 1 to every inhabited continent, with the inaugural event expected to take place in the early 2030s.
By the numbers
Circuit Development and Logistics
The planned race venue will be located in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometers south of Kigali and near the new Kigali International Airport. The facility is being developed to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, which is the highest classification required to host Formula 1 events. Rwanda formally launched its bid for the race in December 2024 during the FIA's annual meetings in Kigali.
Strategic Significance for Formula 1
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment that fulfills the sport's goal of racing on every inhabited continent. The last time a Formula 1 race was held in Africa was the 1993 South African Grand Prix at the Kyalami circuit. While specific details regarding the inaugural race date and weekend arrangements remain to be finalized, the partnership represents a long-term commitment to the region.
Timeline
- 1993The last Formula 1 race was held in Africa at the Kyalami circuit in South Africa.
- December 2024Rwanda formally launched its bid to host a Formula 1 race during FIA meetings.
- TuesdayFormula 1 officially announced the 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix in Rwanda.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Anadolu Agency Sport, Deutsche Welle Sports.
