Rwanda will host Formula 1 under a 10-year agreement announced on Tuesday, paving the way for the championship’s return to Africa after more than three decades away from the continent.
President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and other stakeholders at BK Arena in Kigali for the announcement.
The Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, is expected to join the championship calendar in the early 2030s, once a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera is completed.
The agreement gives Rwanda a long-term role in Formula 1’s return to Africa, where the championship last held a race at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993. It also marks a new phase in the country’s efforts to attract major international sporting events and strengthen its global profile.
The planned circuit will be located near the new Kigali International Airport, about 40 kilometres south of the capital. It will be developed to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, the certification required to host Formula 1 races.
Formula 1 said the partnership was intended to deliver benefits beyond the race weekend, including tourism, investment, skills development and opportunities for local businesses.
Speaking at the ceremony, Kagame said Rwanda wanted the agreement to create lasting opportunities for the country and the wider region, rather than simply bring an international racing event to its territory.
Formula 1 has been seeking to return to Africa as part of its wider expansion, with the continent representing an opportunity to reach new audiences and strengthen its international presence.
Domenicali said the agreement reflected a long-term commitment to bringing the championship back to Africa. The sport has continued to expand its global calendar and audience, while discussions about a possible African race have gained momentum in recent years.
Ben Sulayem said the FIA would work with Rwanda and its partners to support preparations for the event and ensure the circuit meets international safety and technical requirements.
He also stressed the importance of developing motorsport opportunities for young Africans, saying the continent should have a greater role in the sport beyond hosting major competitions.
The FIA’s cooperation with Rwanda includes initiatives to develop grassroots motorsport, including Cross Car and karting, as well as efforts to improve road safety. Ben Sulayem said the federation would continue supporting training and talent development before the Grand Prix begins.
Rwanda has built a growing record of hosting international sporting events. Kigali hosted the FIA General Assemblies and Awards Ceremony in December 2024, while the country staged the UCI Road World Championships in 2025.
The proposed Bugesera circuit is expected to form part of a wider sports and tourism development project. In addition to Formula 1, the venue could potentially host other competitions and events, although details of its wider programme have not yet been announced.
The agreement represents an important step towards bringing the championship back to Africa, but preparations still need to progress from the announcement to delivery.
Formula 1 has not announced the inaugural race date or detailed construction milestones. The circuit must be completed and certified to the required standards before it can host a Grand Prix.
The 10-year agreement establishes the framework for Rwanda’s participation in Formula 1’s planned return to Africa. The next phase will depend on the development of the Bugesera venue and the fulfilment of the technical and organisational requirements for hosting the championship.
