Rwanda to Host Africa’s First F1 Grand Prix Since 1993
Formula One is set to return to Africa in the early 2030s after Rwanda secured a 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix, ending a continental absence that dates back to 1993. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with the first race expected to take place after the completion of a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda. The East African country has pursued the opportunity for years as part of efforts to attract investment, boost tourism and strengthen its international profile through sports. President Paul Kagame formally announced Rwanda’s bid when the country hosted a gathering of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile in December 2024. The last Formula One race held in Africa was the 1993 South African Grand Prix, won by French driver Alain Prost. Formula One president Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment, saying the return would bring the championship closer to fans across the world and mark a significant step towards racing on every inhabited continent. Kagame also welcomed the agreement, describing it as a milestone for Africa and expressing hope that it would create opportunities for other countries on the continent to host races.
Rwanda has increasingly used international sporting events and partnerships to promote its image and attract visitors and investors. The country has secured football sponsorship partnerships with clubs including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, become a major hub for the NBA’s African basketball league and hosted the cycling world championships in 2025. However, the strategy has also drawn criticism from those who argue that sports investments can divert attention from human rights concerns. Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has repeatedly called for the sport to return to Africa, has supported Rwanda’s plans and previously described the country as one of his favourite places. South Africa had also pursued a Grand Prix, but Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said Rwanda had worked on its bid for longer and deserved the opportunity. He nevertheless maintained that South Africa could still host a race before 2030, noting that some countries already hold multiple Formula One events annually. Rwanda’s agreement now sets the stage for the construction of the Bugesera circuit and preparations for Formula One’s return to the continent.
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