Ben Hunt is an award-winning motorsport journalist with over two decades of experience in Formula 1 and international media. As a former editor-in-chief and bestselling author, he delivers in-depth analysis and strategic insight from the highest level of the sport.
Formula 1 could finally end its lengthy absence from Africa, with Rwanda reportedly reaching an agreement to host a Grand Prix as early as 2030. The proposed event would bring the championship back to the continent for the first time since 1993.
F1 sources have indicated that Rwanda’s efforts to secure a place on the Formula 1 calendar have resulted in an agreement although there is no confirmation yet from F1, although the country has been a top target for several months with Stefano Domenicali saying talks had been progressing well.
If the plans come to fruition, Rwanda would host its first Formula 1 Grand Prix, providing a new destination for a championship that has repeatedly discussed restoring an African round.
Rwanda’s F1 ambitions gather momentum
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has been central to the country’s campaign to attract Formula 1. Kigali hosted the FIA General Assemblies and Prize Giving Ceremony in 2024, giving Rwanda a prominent platform within international motorsport.
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During that event, Kagame announced the country’s intention to bid for a Grand Prix, following months of speculation about its ambitions.
The proposal initially faced scepticism because Rwanda did not have a circuit capable of staging an F1 race. Nevertheless, the bid continued to develop rather than disappearing after the announcement.
Kagame subsequently attended the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix and, according to the report, has maintained close contact with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
The latest reported development suggests those efforts have moved the project beyond its initial bidding stage, with 2030 identified as the likeliest year for the race to join the calendar.
A new permanent circuit near Kigali
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Rwanda’s proposed Grand Prix would take place at a purpose-built permanent circuit rather than an existing venue with a site identified approximately 40 kilometres from Kigali, near Bugesera International Airport.
Its design has been drawn up by WurzDesign, the company belonging to former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz. The same company is also working alongside Tilke Engineering on the Qiddiya Speed Park circuit in Saudi Arabia.
The Kyalami Circuit was expected to be the venue for the South African GP
Hamilton has championed an African return
Formula 1 last raced in Africa at the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. Since then, several proposals have sought to restore the continent’s place on the calendar.
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Kyalami and Cape Town have both pursued opportunities to host a race, while interest from Morocco and Nigeria has also been reported.
Lewis Hamilton has been among the strongest advocates for an African Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion’s calls for a return have been accompanied by support from senior figures including Domenicali and Ben Sulayem.
For now, attention turns to whether an official announcement follows the reported agreement.
Rwanda’s proposed 2030 debut would represent a significant breakthrough in a discussion that has continued for years, although the race remains a reported prospect rather than a formally confirmed event.
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