F1 Secures 10‑Year Deal for African Grand Prix in Rwanda
Formula 1 has signed a 10‑year agreement to hold an African Grand Prix in Rwanda, with the first race expected in the early 2030s . The race will take place on a purpose‑built circuit in Bugesera, about 40 km south of Kigali and adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport . The Bugesera circuit will be constructed to FIA Grade 1 standards as part of a wider sports, tourism, infrastructure and commercial development led by the Rwanda Development Board . This event will be the first Formula 1 race on the African continent since the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami ended in 1993 . F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as “one of the most significant days in the history of Formula 1” . The Race reports that seven‑time world champion Lewis Hamilton has advocated for an African race and said he might delay retirement to compete in it .
Why it matters. Rwanda will benefit from increased sports tourism and commercial development as the Bugesera circuit is built to FIA Grade 1 standards .