Formula 1 has signed a 10-year agreement for Rwanda to host the African Grand Prix from the early 2030s. Racing will begin after a new track in Bugesera is completed. It will be the championship’s first race in Africa since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.
The venue will be about 25 miles south of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, near the new international airport. Its design uses the area’s hills to create a challenging course. Beyond racing, the venue is intended to host concerts, conferences, and other major events throughout the year. Officials hope the wider development project will attract visitors and investment while creating jobs and opportunities for local businesses.
Africa already has more than 100 million Formula 1 fans. Nearly 60% of fans in key markets south of the Sahara are under 35. However, Amnesty International has criticized the agreement. Felix Jakens, who leads campaigns for the organization in the United Kingdom, accused Rwanda of using major sports partnerships to improve its image and distract attention from human rights abuses.
