Kigali, Rwanda – President Paul Kagame has announced Rwanda’s bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix, marking a significant step toward bringing the sport back to Africa. The declaration came during the FIA General Assembly in Kigali on Friday, ahead of a ceremony where Max Verstappen will receive his fourth consecutive championship trophy.
Formula One last held a race in Africa at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993. Kagame highlighted the progress made in discussions with Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali, stating Rwanda’s readiness to host the prestigious event.
The proposed circuit is expected to be located near Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometers from Kigali, close to a new international airport under construction. Austrian former F1 driver Alexander Wurz’s firm is reportedly involved in the track’s design.
In August, Domenicali confirmed Rwanda’s interest, and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton called for Formula One to return to Africa, describing it as overdue. Hamilton emphasized the importance of the continent in global motorsport and its potential to boost tourism and development.
This year’s FIA General Assembly, hosted in Africa for the first time, underscores the continent’s growing role in motorsport. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda for its leadership and shared values in road safety and sustainability.
Max Verstappen is also participating in community work in Rwanda, part of a sanction imposed after he used inappropriate language during a press conference in October. His activity involves promoting locally built Affordable Cross Cars, developed using FIA blueprints.
