Rwanda Lands Formula 1 Grand Prix With 10-Year Deal, Africa's First Since 1993

A decade-long agreement between Rwanda and Formula 1 will see the sport return to Africa for the first time in over 30 years. On Tuesday, October 13, this landmark deal was confirmed, with races scheduled to begin in the early 2030s.

The venue will be a newly constructed circuit located in Bugesera, roughly 25 kilometres from Kigali in the southeast direction. Since 1993, when Alain Prost claimed victory at South Africa's Kyalami circuit, no Formula 1 World Championship event has taken place on the African continent.

Multiple African nations had previously pursued unsuccessful bids to restore the championship to the region. Rwanda's accomplishment reflects the country's broader strategy of using major sporting platforms, such as football and basketball events, to strengthen its standing internationally and draw capital.

The venue in Bugesera will meet all Formula 1 technical requirements and will benefit from proximity to Kigali's recently opened international airport, facilitating visitor access and logistical support. When Rwanda hosted the International Automobile Federation's gathering in December 2024, President Paul Kagame unveiled the nation's formal bid for the event.

Formula 1 emphasized that securing this partnership involved considerable preparation to ensure the right conditions and stakeholder commitment for a dependable, high-quality competition. Alex Wurz, who formerly competed as a Formula 1 driver, oversaw the circuit's architectural planning.

Before the event can be staged, the circuit construction and related facilities must reach completion. This initiative sits within Rwanda's comprehensive development programme that integrates sporting venues, hospitality and tourism sectors, and economic enterprise.