Rwanda has secured a landmark 10 year agreement to host Formula 1, paving the way for the return of the world’s premier motorsport championship to Africa for the first time since 1993.
Announced on October 13, 2026, the agreement will see the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, join the championship calendar in the early 2030s, following the completion of a purpose built racing circuit in Bugesera.
The new circuit will be developed to meet FIA Grade 1 standards and form part of a wider investment project aimed at strengthening Rwanda’s position as a leading destination for international sport, tourism and business.
Located approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali and adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport, the planned facility will use the area’s natural elevation changes to create a challenging racing experience while offering spectators expansive viewing opportunities.
Beyond hosting the annual Grand Prix, the venue is expected to operate throughout the year, accommodating international motorsport competitions, major events, conferences and entertainment activities.
The agreement represents a significant step in Rwanda’s strategy to attract international investment and expand its tourism industry through major sporting events.
According to Formula 1, the project is intended to generate long term economic and social benefits by creating jobs, developing local skills, supporting businesses and attracting visitors from across the world.
Rwanda has increasingly positioned itself as a destination for major international gatherings, having hosted events including the 2023 FIFA Congress, the Basketball Africa League, the
2024 FIA General Assemblies and Awards Ceremony, and the UCI Road World Championships.
The Formula 1 agreement builds on these efforts, offering Rwanda an opportunity to strengthen its international profile and develop new opportunities in hospitality, transport, infrastructure and related industries.
The Rwanda Development Board is leading the wider development project, which is expected to connect the racing facility with broader tourism and commercial ambitions.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame welcomed the agreement, describing it as a milestone for the continent after more than three decades without a Formula 1 race.
Kagame said the partnership was designed to deliver benefits beyond a single race weekend, with the planned circuit and airport development expected to support employment, skills development, tourism and business growth for years to come.
He also highlighted the importance of making motorsport more accessible to young Africans, who could pursue careers as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs and professional drivers.
The president said Rwanda looked forward to welcoming international visitors and Formula 1 fans when the African Grand Prix becomes part of the championship calendar.
Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a landmark moment for the championship, emphasising the sport’s ambition to expand its international reach.
Domenicali said Africa already has more than 100 million Formula 1 fans, representing a substantial audience for the sport’s return to the continent. He added that the long term partnership would focus on creating sustainable economic opportunities through tourism, investment, skills development and local business growth.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also welcomed the agreement, saying the governing body would work with Formula 1 and its partners to ensure the new circuit meets international standards.
He said the project could help inspire future generations, develop motorsport talent and open new opportunities across Africa.
The announcement comes as Formula 1 continues to pursue global growth, with Africa representing an important market for attracting younger audiences. The championship has identified a particularly strong opportunity among young fans in sub Saharan African markets.
The inaugural Rwandan Grand Prix will take place once construction of the Bugesera circuit has been completed, with the first race expected in the early 2030s.
Formula 1 has not yet announced a specific inaugural race date, construction milestones or detailed plans for the race weekend. Further information is expected to be released as preparations advance.
The championship last raced in Africa at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993. Rwanda’s arrival on the calendar would end that absence and establish the country as a new destination on the global motorsport circuit.
