Formula One is set to return to Africa for the first time since 1993, with Rwanda confirmed as the host of a new race starting in the early 2030s under a ten-year agreement. The event, to be known as the African Grand Prix, will take place on a purpose-built Grade One circuit in Bugesera, approximately 25 to 40 kilometers south of Kigali, Rwanda's capital. The track is slated to incorporate the region's natural elevation and landscape, with former F1 driver Alexander Wurz and his design firm WurzDesign leading the project.
The announcement marks the end of a 33-year absence of Formula One from the African continent, where the last race was held at the Kyalami circuit near Johannesburg, South Africa. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has been a prominent advocate for the sport's return to Africa, working behind the scenes for several years. Hamilton, who is of Afro-Grenadian descent, has expressed pride in the continent and emphasized its significance for F1, stating that Africa, home to over 100 million F1 fans, deserves a race like every other inhabited continent.
Rwanda's government and the Rwanda Development Board back the race, viewing it as a catalyst for broader economic growth, including boosting tourism, investment, job creation, and skills development. The planned venue near Bugesera is also intended to serve as a multi-purpose facility hosting international motorsport, conferences, and entertainment events throughout the year. President Paul Kagame, who announced the country's bid at the 2024 FIA Prize Giving Ceremony in Kigali, described the race as an opportunity to inspire young Africans and foster local involvement in the sport, such as engineering, technical roles, and entrepreneurship.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the race, Rwanda’s selection has drawn criticism related to the country's human rights record. International organizations, including Amnesty International, have accused the Rwandan government of arbitrary detention, repression of free speech, and alleged support for the M23 rebel group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a conflict linked to widespread violence and displacement. Critics caution against what they describe as “sportswashing,” where major sporting events and sponsorships—such as Rwanda’s visibility in football club sponsorships—are used to improve the country’s international image without addressing underlying issues.
South Africa, Africa’s most developed economy and former F1 host, was also considered for the race but was ultimately passed over for Rwanda. South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie acknowledged Rwanda’s longer preparedness while expressing continued hopes that South Africa could host a future Grand Prix, citing the continent’s size and capacity to support multiple events.
The construction of the new circuit is expected to cost upwards of $50 million, covering infrastructure such as the track, grandstands, pit facilities, media centers, and access roads. In addition to construction costs, hosting fees could reach $50 million annually. The final race date remains unconfirmed but is anticipated in the early 2030s, allowing sufficient time for the circuit to be completed and homologated to FIA Grade One standards.
The reintroduction of Formula One to Africa adds a new dimension to the sport’s increasingly crowded calendar, which is expected to reach its current limit of 24 races by 2027. As the African Grand Prix takes shape, Formula One officials emphasize a long-term vision focused not only on the sporting spectacle but also on generating lasting socioeconomic benefits across the region.