Formula 1 returns to Africa: 10-year deal with Rwanda!

Formula 1 is returning to Africa; for the first time since 1993 (Kyalami near Johannesburg), there will once again be a Formula 1 World Championship race on the African continent. In a few years’ time, races are set to take place at a new circuit in Rwanda.

The agreement marks a decisive moment in the history of Formula 1. Bringing Grand Prix racing back to Africa has long been a goal of Formula 1, and the announcement on 13 October follows years of groundwork to ensure that the right foundations are laid with the best partner to deliver a successful, sustainable and world-class Grand Prix for future generations.

Under the long-term agreement, the first race in the country will take place as soon as the new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera (Rwanda) is completed, which is expected to be at the start of the next decade.

The new circuit will be developed to FIA Grade 1 standards as part of a wider project to develop sport, tourism, infrastructure and business, led by the Rwanda Development Board.

Located some 40 kilometres south of Kigali and in the immediate vicinity of the new Kigali International Airport, the circuit will be designed to blend harmoniously with the natural landscape. The area’s variations in elevation will be utilised to create a unique and challenging racing experience, whilst also offering exceptional viewing opportunities for fans.

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The announcement reflects Formula 1’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global reach and engaging with new audiences around the world. Africa represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities for the sport, with more than 100 million fans already following Formula 1 on the continent, and nearly 60 per cent of fans in key sub-Saharan markets under the age of 35.

Rwanda has established itself as one of Africa’s leading destinations for international events and has successfully hosted major sporting and global gatherings, including the UCI Road World Championships, the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy, the 2023 FIFA Congress, the Basketball Africa League, the 2024 FIA General Assemblies and the FIA Awards Ceremony.

The Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, marks the next chapter in the country’s ambition to become a globally recognised centre for sport, tourism, innovation and business.

His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda: “This day belongs to Africa. For more than three decades, the world’s leading motorsport championship has taken place without this continent, and that is set to change with this agreement. Rwanda is proud to host the African Grand Prix and to share this moment with more than 100 million fans across the continent. This ten-year partnership is also an investment in Rwanda’s future.”

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem: “The return of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship to Africa is a historic moment for our sport and an important step in the continued global growth of motorsport. Rwanda has shown a strong commitment to delivering a world-class event, and the FIA will work closely with FOM and our partners as this new circuit is developed to the highest international standards.”

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali: “This is a milestone for Formula 1. With Rwanda joining the calendar from the next decade, our sport will be racing on every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer to fans around the world than ever before.”

“Africa has always been part of Formula 1’s future, and from the outset we were determined to return in the right way – with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision to make a meaningful impact. “I would like to thank His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and everyone whose commitment and cooperation have made this possible.”