Could this be the spark Africa’s motorsport scene needed? Rwanda and Formula 1 have sealed a ten‑year agreement to launch an African Grand Prix in Kigali, with the inaugural race possible by 2030.
The race will unfold on a brand‑new natural road circuit 40 km south of Kigali, beside the under‑construction Bugesera International Airport. Dubbed the Formula 1 African Grand Prix presented by Visit Rwanda, it hinges on the track’s completion.
Regardless of timing, the pact marks F1’s return to Africa after the 1993 South African Grand Prix, spanning a decade of events.
The announcement came Tuesday in Kigali, with President Paul Kagame, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem on stage.
Designed by Tilke Engineering, ex‑driver Alex Wurz’s WurzDesign and consultancy DAR, the Bugesera circuit will carve a 6 km, 17‑corner anti‑clockwise layout into the terrain, featuring a 197 m elevation change per lap. It forms part of the Rwandan Development Board’s broader tourism and infrastructure push.
‘Today belongs to Africa,’ Kagame declared. ‘For over thirty years the premier motorsport series has missed this continent. Rwanda is thrilled to host the African Grand Prix and showcase it to more than 100 million fans, especially the youth who can see themselves as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs and someday drivers.’
He added, ‘This ten‑year partnership invests in Rwanda’s future. The Bugesera circuit and new airport will generate jobs, skills and tourism for decades, because we aim for lasting benefits, not just a single race weekend.’
Domenicali called it a landmark, noting that with Rwanda on the calendar the sport will span every inhabited continent, bringing the championship closer to global fans. He said Africa has always been part of F1’s future and the right partner and long‑term vision are finally in place. In my view, this partnership could reshape African sport.
He emphasized that the event is more than a race; it can drive economic and social gains through tourism, investment, skill building and local business growth, creating a legacy for generations. He highlighted Africa’s 100 million‑plus fan base, which is rapidly expanding.
Ben Sulayem praised the historic return, calling it a key step for motorsport’s worldwide growth. He said Rwanda’s commitment to a world‑class event will see the new circuit built to the highest standards alongside FOM and partners.
Negotiations accelerated in 2024 as Rwanda seeks marquee events to boost tourism and commerce. Kigali previously hosted the UCI Road World Championships and the FIA’s 2024 Prize Giving Ceremony, where Max Verstappen collected his fourth title.
Seven‑time champion Lewis Hamilton, a longtime advocate for an African round, said earlier this year, ‘I’ve spent six years lobbying behind the scenes. Why aren’t we in Africa when we’re on every other continent?’
He added, ‘My favourite visits have been Kenya and spectacular Rwanda – places I could call home – as well as South Africa. Those venues could host future races.’
We want your opinion! Will Kigali’s circuit become Africa’s premier racing venue?
What would you like to see on the track?
Take our 5 minute survey.
– The Team