Rwanda Secures Decade‑Long Deal to Host Africa’s First F1 Grand Prix Since 1993
Rwanda has signed a ten‑year agreement to stage the African Grand Prix on a new circuit near Kigali, sparking both excitement and controversy.
Rwanda signs ten‑year pact for Africa’s return to Formula 1
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has approved a ten‑year contract with Rwanda to stage an African Grand Prix, marking the sport’s first race on the continent since 1993.
The event will take place on a newly constructed circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of Kigali, with the inaugural edition slated for the early 2030s.
“An honour and privilege” declared President Paul Kagame, adding that the partnership is “long overdue” and a “milestone for the entire continent – especially for African fans.”
The race is being promoted alongside Rwanda’s “Visit Rwanda” tourism brand, aiming to showcase the country’s natural landscape through the circuit’s design.
Critics have raised concerns that the deal could serve as sportswashing, pointing to Rwanda’s human‑rights record as a point of contention.
Calls for an African Grand Prix have grown in recent years, with figures such as seven‑time world champion Lewis Hamilton among the vocal supporters.
Historically, Morocco hosted a Grand Prix in 1958, and South Africa held 23 races between 1962 and 1993.
South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, praised Rwanda’s achievement, noting that “they have worked on it longer than SA and deserve it,” and expressed confidence that his own country will secure a race before 2030.
He also remarked that “one country, Italy, has had two [F1 races] a year, and some react like a continent of [54] countries can only get one.”
The African Grand Prix is positioned as a “lasting legacy” for the sport and a catalyst for future races across the continent.
