Formula 1 comes to Africa with a 10-year deal with Rwanda

Formula 1 has announced a landmark 10-year deal with Rwanda to return the sport back to Africa since 1993. The announcement was made by Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Tuesday in Kigali, where FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Formula One President and CEO Stefano Domenicali were present.

The deal, which will bring Formula 1 back to Africa for the first time since 1993, represents a turning point in the sport’s history. Formula 1 has long wanted to race in Africa, and today’s news comes after years of working together to make sure the best partner and the proper foundations are in place to deliver a successful, sustainable, and world-class Grand Prix for future generations.

“This partnership is long overdue,” Kagame said at a launch event in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. “But it is a success and a milestone for the entire continent, especially for the African fans. Ultimately, what we want is for the African Grand Prix to pave the way for other races to be hosted on the continent.”

According to the long-term agreement, the nation’s first race will take place as soon as the newly constructed circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda, is finished, which is anticipated to happen early in the next ten years. The Rwanda Development Board is in charge of a broader sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial development project that includes the construction of the new track to FIA Grade 1 standards.

The circuit, which is situated next to the new Kigali International Airport and about 40 kilometers south of Kigali, will be built to blend in with the surrounding environment. It will make use of the region’s elevation variations to provide spectators with an unforgettable and difficult racing experience. Beyond race weekends, the location will function as a year-round hub that can accommodate international motorsports, significant events, conferences, and entertainment, promoting long-term investment and economic growth in the area.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA: “The return of the FIA Formula One World Championship to Africa is a historic moment for our sport and an important step in the continued global growth of motorsport. Rwanda has demonstrated a strong commitment to delivering a world-class event, and the FIA will work closely with FOM and our partners as this new circuit is developed to the highest international standards.

“This agreement is also about creating a lasting legacy, inspiring new generations, developing talent and opening new opportunities for motorsport across Africa and beyond. Increasing accessibility is at the heart of the FIA’s mission, and we have a responsibility to ensure that our sport continues to grow at every level, reaching new communities and creating opportunities for people in every corner of the world.

“I congratulate President Paul Kagame on this landmark moment for his nation and share my thanks with Stefano Domenicali and all those whose collaboration has made this exciting new chapter possible.”

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Rwanda has established itself as one of Africa’s leading destinations for international events, successfully hosting major sport and global gatherings including the UCI Road World Championships, the ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy, 2023 FIFA Congress, the Basketball Africa League, the 2024 FIA General Assemblies and the FIA Awards Ceremony.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1 Group, said, “Today is a landmark moment for Formula 1. With Rwanda joining the calendar from the next decade, our sport will race in every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer than ever to fans around the globe.

Africa has always been part of Formula 1’s future, and from the beginning we were determined to return in the right way, with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision for creating meaningful impact. I would like to thank His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, the Government of Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and everyone whose dedication and collaboration have made this possible,” he said.