Rwandan President Paul Kagame has announced the country’s official bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, marking a potential return of the sport to Africa for the first time since 1993, when South Africa’s Kyalami circuit hosted its last race.
Speaking at the FIA’s General Assembly and Prize Giving in Kigali, Kagame expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating:
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix. A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at F1 for the good progress in our discussions so far. I assure you we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.”
Proposed Location and Track Design
If approved, the race will take place on a newly designed circuit near the upcoming Bugesera International Airport outside Kigali. The track, integrated into the region’s hilly terrain and built along a lakeside, promises to be fast and dynamic.
The circuit is being designed by Alexander Wurz, a former F1 driver and current chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association. Wurz, whose firm is also designing Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiyah track slated for completion in 2028, has been working on the Rwanda project with local stakeholders for over a year.
Africa’s Return to Formula 1
F1 has expressed interest in returning to Africa, a continent that has not hosted a Grand Prix in over three decades. While previous attempts to revive a race at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit fell through due to issues with local promoters, Rwanda’s bid is now considered the frontrunner for an African race.
FIA Support for Rwandan Motorsport
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda’s commitment to motorsport during his meeting with the country’s Sports Minister, Richard Nyirishema, in Kigali. He emphasized the nation’s alignment with FIA values, including innovation, sustainability, and road safety, stating:
“To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation and its growing influence in motorsport. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”