Rwanda is set to bring Formula 1 back to Africa in 2030, with a new Grand Prix planned near Kigali, according to a report by RacingNews365.
The outlet reported on October 6, citing multiple sources in the Formula 1 paddock, that an agreement had been reached. It said an announcement could come later this year, possibly within weeks.
The proposed permanent circuit would be built near Bugesera International Airport, about 40 kilometres from Kigali. Its design is associated with WurzDesign, founded by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz.
Rwanda’s bid has been developing for several years. In August 2024, F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali described the proposal as serious and said it involved a permanent circuit. That December, Kigali hosted the FIA General Assemblies and Prize Giving Ceremony, where President Paul Kagame formally announced Rwanda’s bid.
“I’m happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting Formula 1 Grand Prix. A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at Formula 1 for the good progress in our discussions so far. I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves,” Kagame said.
The African race discussions continued into 2026. In August, Domenicali said negotiations for a Grand Prix on the continent were progressing well. South Africa has also pursued an F1 return, with its bid centred on upgrading the Kyalami circuit.
The last Formula 1 World Championship race in Africa was the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. A 2030 Rwanda Grand Prix would bring the championship back to the continent after 37 years.
