Formula 1 has agreed a ten-year deal for Rwanda to host the African Grand Prix from the early 2030s, restoring the continent to the championship calendar for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix. The inaugural event depends on completion of a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, beside the capital’s new international airport. An exact race date has yet to be announced. Rwanda formally announced its bid in December 2024, when it hosted an FIA gathering.
Designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz and Carsten Tilke, the proposed six-kilometre, anti-clockwise circuit will feature 17 corners and 197 metres of elevation change. Its route uses two hills overlooking a lake, with banked and cambered corners intended to support challenging racing and overtaking opportunities. The wider development, led by the Rwanda Development Board, includes karting facilities, a driving experience centre and off-road courses. Concerts, conferences and other major events are intended to keep the venue active beyond race weekends.
Organisers present the agreement as a long-term opportunity to attract tourism and investment, develop skills and expand local business. Africa already has more than 100 million F1 followers, while almost 60% of fans in key Sub-Saharan African markets are under 35. However, Amnesty International UK’s campaigns chief, Felix Jakens, condemned the partnership, arguing that Rwanda uses prestigious sporting events to rehabilitate its image and divert attention from human rights abuses. He urged Formula 1 to use its influence to press the authorities for change.
