Rwandan President Kagame Declares Bid to Host Formula 1 Grand Prix

Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, has declared the nation’s intention to host a Formula 1 grand prix, an event that would signify the sport’s return to the African continent for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. Formula 1 has shown interest in staging a race in Africa, and discussions with Rwanda on this matter have been public knowledge for several months. President Kagame formally endorsed the grand prix initiative during the opening of the FIA’s general assembly and prize-giving ceremony, which is currently taking place in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and is the governing body of F1. Kagame stated: “I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa, by hosting a Formula 1 grand prix.” He added: “A big thank you to [F1 president] Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at F1 for the good progress in our discussions so far.” Kagame further affirmed: “I assure you we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.” Should an agreement be finalized, the proposed race circuit would be situated near the new Bugesera airport, which is located outside Kigali. The design of this track is attributed to Alexander Wurz, a former Formula 1 driver and the current chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association. Wurz’s firm has collaborated with local consultants, businesses, and government bodies on the track’s development for over a year. The circuit, characterized by its fast and flowing nature, is under construction beside a lake, leveraging the region’s hilly landscape. Additionally, Wurz is involved in the design of the new Qiddiyah track in Saudi Arabia, which is anticipated to be completed in 2028 and host a grand prix in 2029. Previously, Formula 1 had sought to reinstate a grand prix in South Africa at the Kyalami track, which last hosted a race in 1993; however, these discussions concluded unsuccessfully due to difficulties with the local promoter. The Rwandan initiative is currently regarded as the most probable prospect for an African grand prix, although the project’s final confirmation is still pending. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, held a meeting with Richard Nyirishema, Rwanda’s Sports Minister, during the general assembly session. Ben Sulayem commented: “To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular its growing influence in motorsport.” He added: “We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”