Rwanda has been selected to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix for an initial period of 10 years, beginning in 2030, marking a major milestone in the country’s ambition to become a leading destination for international sports and tourism.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport, has confirmed Rwanda as the future host of the African Grand Prix, which will be held in partnership with Visit Rwanda.
The race is expected to become the 24th event on the Formula 1 calendar, joining 23 existing Grands Prix held across different parts of the world. It will also mark the return of Formula 1 to the African continent for the first time since 1993.
The announcement was made at BK Arena on October 12, 2026, in the presence of President Paul Kagame and other senior officials. The occasion also marked the signing of a 10-year agreement aimed at bringing the Formula 1 World Championship back to Africa in collaboration with the FIA.
Rwanda Prepares to Build a World-Class Racing Circuit
The inaugural Rwandan Grand Prix will take place after the completion of a purpose-built motorsport circuit in Bugesera District, near the site of the new Kigali International Airport.
The circuit is expected to be completed in the early 2030s and will be designed to meet the FIA’s Grade 1 standards, the highest certification required for a track to host Formula 1 races.
Located approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, the facility will incorporate the area’s natural landscape, with elevation changes designed to create a challenging and distinctive racing experience for drivers while providing spectators with an exciting viewing environment.
The development is part of a broader initiative led by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to promote sports, tourism, infrastructure development and business investment.
Kagame Welcomes Rwanda’s Role in Formula 1’s Return to Africa
Speaking at the announcement, President Paul Kagame said Rwanda was ready to contribute to the growth of motorsport across the African continent.
“Today, I am pleased to officially announce that Rwanda has been working hard in preparation to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix in the early 2030s,” Kagame said.
He added that Rwanda was enthusiastic about being part of an initiative that would transform the way Africa is perceived on the global sporting stage.
Rwanda’s selection follows years of discussions and preparations, including the country’s formal bid to host a Formula 1 race, which President Kagame announced in late 2024.
The agreement reflects a long-term commitment to establishing a world-class Grand Prix that meets international standards, operates successfully and delivers lasting benefits for future generations.
A Major Boost for Tourism and Investment
Beyond motorsport, the planned circuit is expected to serve as a multipurpose venue for international racing competitions, major events, conferences and entertainment activities.
The facility is intended to attract investment, stimulate business activity, create economic opportunities and support long-term regional development.
The African Grand Prix will also strengthen Rwanda’s international visibility as a destination for sports tourism, innovation and business. Through its partnership with Visit Rwanda, the event is expected to contribute to the country’s broader strategy of positioning itself as a global hub for major sporting events.
Rwanda Strengthens Its Position as a Sports Destination
Rwanda was among the African countries seeking to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix, alongside South Africa.
In recent years, the country has invested significantly in hosting major international sporting competitions, including the UCI Road World Championships, African basketball competitions and the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Rwanda has also hosted major international institutional events, including the FIFA Congress in 2023 and the FIA General Assembly and Awards Ceremony in 2024.
These events have helped raise Rwanda’s profile as a destination capable of hosting international gatherings and sporting competitions.
Formula 1 Set for a Historic Return to Africa
The planned African Grand Prix represents a significant moment for Formula 1 and African motorsport, ending a more than three-decade absence of the championship from the continent.
For Rwanda, the 10-year hosting agreement is an opportunity to expand its international sporting portfolio, attract visitors and investors, and accelerate the development of supporting infrastructure.
With preparations for the Bugesera circuit expected to advance towards the early 2030s, Rwanda is positioning itself to welcome the world’s leading motorsport teams, drivers and fans to a new chapter in Formula 1 history.
