Rwanda has signed a 10-year deal with Formula 1 to host the African Grand Prix, starting in the early 2030s. The event will be held on a new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, 25 miles south of the capital Kigali. This will be the first F1 race in Africa since 1993. The circuit has been designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz to work in harmony with Rwanda's natural landscape.
The new circuit will be built next to Kigali's new international airport and is expected to bring jobs, skills, tourism, and new business to the country and region. Rwanda President Paul Kagame said the event will share the sport with over 100 million fans across Africa, inspiring young people to see themselves in the sport as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs, and drivers.
Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali described the new contract as a "landmark moment" for the sport, which will now be racing on every inhabited continent. Domenicali emphasized that Africa has always been part of Formula 1's future and that the sport is committed to creating meaningful impact. The event is expected to expand F1's profile in Africa, a relatively unexplored market.
However, the deal has raised concerns about sportswashing, with Rwanda previously accused of human rights abuses. The Democratic Republic of Congo has filed a case against Rwanda at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of breaching international treaties. A spokesperson for F1 said the sport can be a positive force for good and inspire passion in 100 million people across Africa.
The track's build process will be overseen by three companies, including long-time F1 track architect Tilke and DAR, working alongside WurzDesign. The circuit is designed to be fast and flowing, with significant elevation change, using Rwanda's natural contours. The first grand prix in Africa was held in Morocco in 1958, and South Africa hosted a race during the apartheid era.
F1 hopes to avoid scheduling the race during the main rain season in Rwanda, which typically occurs from March to May. There is a shorter rain season from October to November, which may be a more suitable time for the event. The sport is committed to keeping the season at no more than 24 races.
The African Grand Prix is expected to provide a lasting benefit for Rwanda and its people, with President Kagame emphasizing that the aim was never a single race weekend but a long-term impact. The event will be a significant milestone for F1, marking its return to Africa after decades. Key points include the 10-year deal, the new circuit in Bugesera, and concerns about sportswashing.
Key points
- Rwanda signs 10-year deal to host African Grand Prix starting in 2030s
- The event will be held on a new circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda
- The deal raises concerns about sportswashing due to Rwanda's human rights record
