Rwanda to host F1’s first African race since 1993

Formula 1 is set to return to Africa for the first time since 1993, with Rwanda confirmed as the host of the African Grand Prix under a 10-year deal ^[1]. The race will take place at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, 25 miles south of Kigali and adjacent to the country’s new international airport. The track, designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, will use Rwanda’s natural elevation changes to create a fast, flowing layout with exceptional viewing opportunities.

F1 president Stefano Domenicali called the agreement a 'landmark moment', stating it will make the sport the first to race on every inhabited continent ^[1]. The event is expected to begin in the early 2030s, with construction overseen by WurzDesign, Tilke, and DAR. The race is likely to be scheduled outside the main rainy season (March to May), possibly in October to November.

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame hailed the event as a moment of pride, emphasizing its potential to inspire young Africans to pursue careers in engineering, tech, and motorsport ^[1]. He stressed the long-term benefits, including jobs, tourism, and regional development. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, the only Black driver currently in F1, has long advocated for a race on the continent, describing it as a personal mission ^[2].

The announcement has sparked concern among human rights groups, who have raised allegations that the event could be used for sportswashing, particularly given Rwanda’s sponsorship of Premier League clubs Arsenal and Aston Villa ^[1]. This claim has been made by some observers but has not been confirmed. The Democratic Republic of Congo has also filed a case at the International Court of Justice against Rwanda, accusing it of breaching international treaties.

F1 insists the project is about long-term impact, not just a single event ^[1]. The last African F1 race was held in South Africa in 1993, before apartheid ended. No other African nation has secured a race on the current F1 calendar, though talks with South Africa about Kyalami and Cape Town have not led to a deal. The story was first reported by BBC News and The Independent.