Rwanda has been confirmed as the host of the African Grand Prix, with Formula 1 set to return to the continent, after 33 years, in the early 2030s under a 10-year agreement.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, October 13, following an agreement between Formula 1 and the Rwandan government, paving the way for the championship’s return to Africa after more than three decades.
The race will take place at a purpose-built circuit planned in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kigali. The facility is expected to be completed in the early 2030s, although the date of the inaugural race has not yet been announced.
Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment for the sport, saying the addition of Rwanda would enable the championship to race on every inhabited continent.
“Africa has always been part of Formula 1’s future, and from the beginning we were determined to return in the right way, with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision for creating meaningful impact,” Domenicali said.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement, describing it as a milestone for Africa and its motorsport fans.
The deal follows Rwanda’s formal bid to host a Formula 1 race, announced by Kagame in December 2024 during an event organised by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), motorsport’s global governing body.
The proposed circuit will be developed near the new Bugesera International Airport, as Rwanda seeks to strengthen its position as a destination for major international sporting events.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also welcomed the agreement, highlighting its potential to develop motorsport talent and create opportunities for future generations across Africa.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has been among the leading advocates for Formula 1’s return to Africa. The British driver has repeatedly called for the championship to include an African race, arguing that the continent should be represented on the global calendar.
Africa last hosted a Formula 1 World Championship race at the South African Grand Prix in Kyalami in 1993. Morocco previously hosted a championship race in 1958.
Rwanda’s confirmation follows years of competing efforts to bring the championship back to Africa, including proposals involving South Africa and Morocco.
Formula 1 says further details about the inaugural race date, circuit development milestones and race weekend arrangements will be announced in due course.
The agreement is also expected to support Rwanda’s ambitions to attract international visitors and investment through major sporting events, although the project’s delivery will depend on completing the circuit and associated infrastructure.
