KIGALI: Rwanda has secured a landmark 10-year agreement to host the Formula One African Grand Prix, marking the return of the prestigious motorsport championship to Africa for the first time since 1993. The inaugural race is expected to take place in the early 2030s, following the construction of a purpose-built racing circuit in Bugesera, near the capital, Kigali.President Paul Kagame welcomed the development as a historic opportunity for Rwanda and the African continent, emphasizing that Africa has the potential to contribute significantly to the growth and global excellence of motorsports.“It is an honour and privilege for Rwanda to be chosen as a destination in the Formula One calendar,” President Kagame said, highlighting the shared vision behind the agreement to strengthen Africa’s position in the international sporting arena.
He stressed that connecting African markets with global sports franchises and competitions could create transformative opportunities. However, he noted that cross-border sporting partnerships have historically not delivered equitable benefits to Africa, despite the continent’s contribution to the global sports economy.“The message for all of us is simple: sports is a great equalizer, but we have to be intentional about delivering this promise,” Kagame said.The Rwandan president expressed enthusiasm for the country’s participation in a new chapter of international motorsports, saying Rwanda aims to contribute meaningfully to the sport rather than merely participate.The planned circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, will be developed to meet international FIA Grade One standards. The project is expected to support not only Formula One racing but also tourism, investment, employment, skills development and other major international events.The agreement represents a significant milestone for African motorsports, as the continent has been absent from the Formula One calendar since the last South African Grand Prix in 1993. Rwanda’s entry is expected to bring the championship closer to millions of African fans and create new opportunities for young people interested in engineering, technology, business and professional racing.Beyond the sporting spectacle, the initiative reflects Rwanda’s broader ambition to strengthen its position as an international destination for major sporting events and business investment.
President Kagame said Rwanda was excited to be part of a journey that would reshape the world’s perception of Africa in sports, adding that the country intended to help build a more inclusive and globally connected future for motorsports.The historic agreement marks a new chapter for Rwanda and African sports, with the potential to expand the continent’s role in one of the world’s most prominent sporting competitions.
