Formula 1 has announced a landmark 10-year agreement to bring the sport back to the African continent, with the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, set to join the calendar in the early 2030s.
The agreement marks a defining moment in F-1’s history and will see the sport return to Africa for the first time since 1993.
Racing in Africa has been a long-standing ambition for F-1, with Tuesday’s announcement following years of collaboration to ensure the right foundations, with the best partner, are in place to deliver a successful, sustainable and world-class Grand Prix for generations to come.
The long-term agreement will see the first race in the country take place once a new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda, has been completed, which is expected to be early in the next decade.
The new track will be developed to FIA Grade 1 standards as part of a wider sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial development project led by the Rwanda Development Board.
Located approximately 40 kilometers south of capital city Kigali, and adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport, the circuit will be designed to work in harmony with the natural landscape, using the area’s elevation changes to create a unique and challenging racing experience while delivering exceptional viewing opportunities for fans.
Beyond race weekends, the venue will serve as a year-round destination capable of hosting international motorsport, major events, conferences and entertainment, helping to drive long-term economic growth and investment across the region.
The announcement reflects F-1’s continued commitment to expanding its global reach and connecting with new audiences around the world. Africa represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities for the sport, with more than 100 million fans already following F-1 across the continent, and almost 60% of fans in key Sub-Saharan African markets under the age of 35.
Rwanda has established itself as one of Africa’s leading destinations for international events, successfully hosting major sport and global gatherings including the UCI Road World Championships, the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy, 2023 FIFA Congress, the Basketball Africa League, the 2024 FIA General Assemblies and the FIA Awards Ceremony.
Everything we know about F-1’s all-new race in RwandaThe Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, represents the next chapter in the country’s ambition to become a globally recognized hub for sport, tourism, innovation and business.
More than simply bringing F-1 back to Africa, the project is designed to create a legacy by supporting tourism, attracting investment, developing local talent and creating new opportunities for communities and businesses.
Together, F-1, the Government of Rwanda and the Rwanda Development Board share a vision to build an event that generates meaningful economic and social impact while inspiring future generations across the continent.
Further details regarding the inaugural race date, circuit development milestones and race weekend plans will be announced in due course.
