Formula One is set to return to Africa for the first time since 1993 after leadership confirmed a 10-year agreement with Rwanda to host a grand prix starting in the early 2030s. The announcement fulfills a long-standing ambition championed by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has consistently urged the global motorsport series to bring a race back to the continent.
The upcoming event will be held on a newly constructed, purpose-built circuit located in Bugesera, approximately 25 miles south of the Rwandan capital of Kigali. Organizers have indicated that the track layout will be designed to integrate smoothly with the natural topography, incorporating local elevation changes to deliver a distinctive and demanding challenge for drivers. F1 officials also noted that the competing drivers are expected to provide input during the final circuit design phase.
Officially designated as the African Grand Prix, the fixture will materialize nearly forty years after the previous continental round held at Kyalami in South Africa. Although the exact debut year has not yet been finalized, the long-term commitment marks a major turning point for the sport.
Formula One Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali described the announcement as a historic milestone for the organization. He emphasized that the addition of Rwanda ensures the world championship will compete across every inhabited continent, expanding the sport's reach for a rapidly growing fanbase in Africa that currently exceeds 100 million supporters.
Lewis Hamilton, speaking at the recent Singapore Grand Prix regarding the potential Rwandan project, expressed enthusiasm for a continental return, calling Africa an essential and stunning destination that deserved a place on the world championship schedule after years of behind-the-scenes lobbying.