Formula One announces return to Africa in Rwanda in the early 2030s

Formula One has announced plans to return to Africa in the early 2030s, with Rwanda securing a 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix.

According to Vanguard, the announcement was made Tuesday, marking Formula One’s planned return to the continent for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.

The race will take place at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera once construction is completed.

“Today is a landmark moment for Formula One,” F1 president Stefano Domenicali said.

He added that Rwanda’s inclusion would bring the championship to every inhabited continent.

President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement, declaring, “Today belongs to Africa.”

“For more than three decades, the world’s premier motorsport championship has raced without this continent, and that changes with this agreement.”

Rwanda formally announced its hosting ambitions in December 2024 and has invested heavily in international sporting events.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has supported Africa’s return to the calendar, while South Africa has also pursued hosting rights.