Formula 1 has announced a historic 10-year agreement to bring Grand Prix racing back to Africa. Rwanda is confirmed as the host of a new race scheduled to debut in the early 2030s.
According to Formula 1’s official announcement on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the African Grand Prix will take place at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera. This location is approximately 40 kilometres south of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali.
The agreement marks the return of Formula 1 to Africa for the first time since 1993. That year, South Africa hosted the continent’s last Grand Prix at Kyalami.
Rwanda will become the third African country to host a Formula 1 World Championship race, following Morocco and South Africa.
The announcement follows years of discussions about restoring Africa’s place on the Formula 1 calendar.
F1 confirms 10-year deal with Rwanda
Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali welcomed the agreement. He described it as an important milestone in the sport’s global expansion.
“Today is a landmark moment for Formula 1,” Domenicali said.
He explained that the agreement would allow the championship to race on every inhabited continent.
Domenicali also revealed that Africa has more than 100 million Formula 1 fans, highlighting the continent’s growing interest in motorsport.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame celebrated the announcement, describing it as an achievement for the entire continent.
“Today belongs to Africa,” Kagame declared.
He explained that the partnership would provide opportunities for young Africans to participate in motorsport as engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs and future racing drivers.
Rwanda plans new Formula 1 circuit
The new circuit will be constructed in Bugesera, near Kigali’s developing international airport.
The facility will meet the International Automobile Federation’s Grade 1 standards. This is the highest safety and technical classification required for Formula 1 racing.
The project will form part of a wider development initiative involving tourism, infrastructure, sports and commercial investment.
Rwandan authorities expect the race to attract international visitors and create employment opportunities. In addition, it is expected to strengthen the country’s position as a destination for major sporting events.
Beyond Formula 1 weekends, the circuit is expected to accommodate other motorsport competitions, conferences and entertainment activities.
The announcement also follows years of advocacy by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. He has repeatedly called for Formula 1 to return to Africa.
Although the agreement has been confirmed, the exact date of the inaugural race has not been announced.
Formula 1 said further details about construction milestones, the racing calendar and event arrangements would be released as preparations progress.
