Rwanda Secures 10-Year Formula One Deal to Bring Grand Prix Back to Africa

Rwanda Secures 10-Year Formula One Deal to Bring Grand Prix Back to Africa. Rwanda is set to bring Formula One back to Africa for the first time since 1993 after securing a 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix from the early 2030s.

The race, to be known as the African Grand Prix presented by Visit Rwanda, will take place at a new circuit planned alongside an international airport under construction at Bugesera, about 40km south of Kigali.

Formula One last held a race in Africa at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit, north of Johannesburg. Rwanda will become the third African country to host a Formula One championship round, following Morocco, which staged a race near Casablanca in 1958, and South Africa.

Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment for the championship. He said the sport’s return to Africa reflected a long-term commitment to the continent.

The planned Grade One circuit is being designed by former Austrian Formula One driver Alex Wurz, with Formula One circuit architect Tilke also involved. The track is expected to be completed early in the next decade and will feature changes in elevation.

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, said the facility is planned to accommodate 100,000 spectators and operate as a multi-purpose venue for concerts and exhibitions outside of racing events.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame said the 10-year partnership would support investment in the country and region, while creating opportunities in areas including jobs, skills, tourism and business.

The announcement follows Rwanda’s efforts to position itself as a destination for international sporting events. The country hosted the 2025 UCI Road World Championships and has also hosted the FIFA Congress and FIA Awards.

The Formula One agreement comes as South Africa continues to explore the possibility of returning to the calendar through either Cape Town or Kyalami.