Formula 1 is making its return to Africa, with Rwanda securing a 10-year deal to host an African Grand Prix from the "early 2030s". This agreement marks the end of a nearly 40-year absence for the sport on the continent, with the last grand prix held in South Africa in 1993.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali hailed the deal as a "landmark" achievement, noting that Liberty Media, F1's owners, have pursued an African race since 2017. Rwanda's success in securing the event comes after Morocco and South Africa, among others, were unable to finalise similar plans. Rwanda reportedly presented a single plan with the necessary financial backing and ambition.
The new circuit is planned for Bugesera, located 25 miles south of the capital Kigali. This development is part of a larger project near a new international airport, which will also include facilities for entertainment, residential areas, hotels, spas, sports science, and an innovation hub. The track, designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, is envisaged to be about 6km long with 17 corners and nearly 200m of elevation change, drawing inspiration from classic tracks like Spa-Francorchamps and Suzuka.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has supported the project, stating it will bring "jobs, skills, tourism and new business" to Africa. The grand prix is part of Rwanda's broader strategy to boost tourism, international investment, services, and entertainment, aiming to increase the nation's GDP.