Rwanda to Host Formula 1 African Grand Prix in 10-Year Deal

Rwanda will host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix under a 10-year agreement, bringing the championship back to the continent for the first time since 1993. Formula 1 announced on October 13, 2026, that the race is expected to join the calendar in the early 2030s, after a new circuit is completed in Bugesera District.

The purpose-built circuit is planned near the new Kigali International Airport, about 40 kilometres south of Kigali. It is expected to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, the highest circuit grade required for Formula 1 races. Officials say the venue could also host other motorsport events, conferences and entertainment outside race weekends.

President Paul Kagame described the agreement as an investment in Rwanda’s future. “Today belongs to Africa,” he said, adding that the partnership was intended to bring “jobs, skills, tourism and new business” to Rwanda and the wider region.

Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali called the agreement “a landmark moment for Formula 1.” He said the return was about more than a race, with the aim of creating lasting benefits through tourism, investment, skills development and local business growth.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the return of Formula 1 to Africa was “a historic moment” and pledged that the FIA would work with Formula 1 and its partners to ensure the new circuit meets international standards. He said the project should help inspire new generations and develop motorsport talent across Africa.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has also publicly advocated for a race in Africa. Speaking to reporters in Singapore in the days before the announcement, he said: “I’ve always said that we need to have a Grand Prix in Africa.” Hamilton has argued that a race could help increase tourism and bring greater attention to the continent.

The announcement comes as Rwanda seeks to expand its profile as a destination for major international events. The country hosted the 2025 UCI Road World Championships and the 2023 FIFA Congress, among other sporting and industry gatherings. The Grand Prix could create opportunities for hotels, restaurants, transport providers and local suppliers, although official estimates for the project’s total cost, visitor numbers and economic returns have not yet been published.

The agreement runs for 10 years, with the first race expected in the early 2030s. The planned Bugesera circuit will be about 40 kilometres from Kigali and is intended to meet FIA Grade 1 standards. Formula 1 says Africa already has more than 100 million fans, and nearly 60% of fans in key Sub-Saharan African markets are under 35. The scale of the potential audience is significant, but the project’s long-term success will depend on completing the circuit, managing costs and ensuring that tourism, jobs and business opportunities benefit local communities.