Rwanda signed a 10-year Formula 1 grand prix deal
- Formula 1 will return to Africa for the first time in nearly 40 years after Rwanda signed a 10-year deal to host an African Grand Prix from the...
- Rwanda secured the grand prix by presenting a single, unified plan complete with the necessary financial backing and ambition.
- The new racing venue is currently a greenfield site located in Bugesera, positioned 25 miles south of the capital city of Kigali.
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Formula 1 will return to Africa for the first time in nearly 40 years after Rwanda signed a 10-year deal to host an African Grand Prix from the early 2030s. The agreement ends nearly a decade of effort by F1 owners Liberty Media to bring a race to the continent since acquiring the sport at the start of 2017.
Circuit Construction in Bugesera
Rwanda secured the grand prix by presenting a single, unified plan complete with the necessary financial backing and ambition. Other nations, including Morocco and South Africa, failed to secure slots due to financial hurdles or competing proposals. South Africa previously juggled up to four separate projects across three different locations, including two in Cape Town, which proved unmanageable for F1 officials dealing with a crowded racing calendar.
The new racing venue is currently a greenfield site located in Bugesera, positioned 25 miles south of the capital city of Kigali. The circuit forms part of a broader development anchored by a new international airport under construction in the area. Project plans incorporate residential zones, hotels, entertainment spaces, spas, sports science facilities, and an innovation hub.
Political Context and Official Reactions
The announcement took place in Kigali alongside Rwandan President Paul Kagame and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. F1 president Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark achievement and praised the host nation during the official presentation.
It is the legacy of all of us to be in this very special moment. Rwanda is one of the world’s great success stories. A nation of extraordinary natural beauty and stunning landscapes, combined with resilience and courage to overcome and be reborn from challenges of its past.
Stefano Domenicali
While the project has drawn scrutiny regarding past accusations of sportswashing, series leadership emphasized the nation’s investment growth and vision. Drivers such as Lewis Hamilton have previously advocated for the sport’s return to Africa, pushing F1 bosses to prioritize a grand project on the continent.