Rwanda has signed a ten-year agreement with Formula 1 to host a Grand Prix at a new circuit in Bugesera, roughly 40 kilometres south of Kigali, starting in the early 2030s. The announcement, made on Tuesday 13 October 2026 in Kigali, ends more than three decades without a Formula 1 race on African soil, dating back to the 1993 South African Grand Prix.

Officials confirm the landmark agreement

The deal was unveiled in the Rwandan capital in the presence of President Paul Kagame, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. For the Rwandan authorities, the agreement forms part of a broader strategy to raise the country’s international profile through major sporting events and tourism development.

“Today belongs to Africa,” Kagame said, describing the partnership as long overdue. He also expressed hope that the race would pave the way for further competitions across the continent.

Bugesera circuit to meet FIA technical standards

The future Grand Prix will take place in Bugesera, a locality near the new international airport currently under construction. The site will feature a circuit purpose-built for Formula 1, designed to satisfy the FIA’s technical requirements for the world’s fastest single-seaters.

The track is expected to make use of Rwanda’s natural topography, with its hills and elevation changes. The design brings together Wurz Design, led by former driver Alex Wurz, and Tilke Engineers and Architects, a firm with extensive experience in international circuit construction.

Beyond race weekend: a year-round destination

Promoters envision the site as a versatile venue capable of hosting other motorsport competitions, concerts, conferences, and international events. The aim is to sustain economic activity throughout the year rather than confining benefits to a few days of racing.

However, the exact date of the first edition has not yet been fixed. The launch will depend on construction progress and the completion of necessary infrastructure. The agreement is in place, but its realisation will rest on the ability of all parties to meet the project’s milestones.

Economic and tourism boost expected

For Kigali, the arrival of Formula 1 represents far more than a sporting event. The government hopes to attract new visitors, stimulate investment, and create jobs, particularly for young people. Hospitality, catering, transport, security, communication, and event services are all expected to benefit from the influx of spectators, professionals, and commercial partners.

The circuit’s proximity to the future airport is also intended to facilitate travel for teams, sponsors, and international fans. This integration of transport infrastructure and sports facilities forms part of a wider strategy to position Rwanda as a destination for business and major global gatherings.

Building on a track record of major events

The country has already hosted several international events, including the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, as well as football and basketball tournaments. Formula 1 would reinforce this visibility policy, which is also supported by the “Visit Rwanda” tourism brand.

According to Formula 1 data, the championship already enjoys a significant audience in Africa, with more than 100 million supporters across the continent. The competition aims to connect with a younger audience that could contribute to its commercial and media growth.

For Paul Kagame, the challenge is also to turn this visibility into concrete opportunities for the population: technical training, skills development, entrepreneurship, and access to automotive engineering careers. The question will be how far these prospects translate into lasting benefits for local businesses and residents.

By Yacouba Ouédraogo — Journalist