Photo Credit:Getty Images
Rwanda has officially launched its bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, marking a significant step toward bringing the prestigious motorsport back to Africa for the first time since the South African Grand Prix in 1993. The announcement was made by President Paul Kagame during the opening of the FIA General Assembly in Kigali.
"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," Kagame stated. He expressed gratitude to Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali and his team for their ongoing discussions, emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to the project. "We are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves," he added.
The proposed circuit, designed by former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz, will be located near the upcoming Bugesera International Airport,
approximately 40 kilometers from Kigali. Wurz’s company has been collaborating with local authorities and businesses for over a year to create a track that complements the region’s hilly terrain and lakeside setting.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda’s efforts, stating, "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. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright."
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been a vocal advocate for an African Grand Prix. Speaking earlier, Hamilton remarked, "The time's 100% right. We can't be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa." He further highlighted the continent’s potential to attract tourism and global attention through a Grand Prix.
Rwanda has been leveraging sports to boost its international profile, including its sponsorship of Arsenal FC and other initiatives. However, the country has faced scrutiny over its human rights record, with organizations such as Human Rights Watch raising concerns about restrictions on free speech and alleged political repression.
Despite these challenges, the FIA's assembly in Kigali, the first held in Africa, has showcased Rwanda’s ambition and capability to host a world-class motorsport event. While the earliest possible race would be in 2026, Rwanda’s bid positions it as the leading candidate for Africa’s next Formula 1 Grand Prix.
"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," Kagame stated. He expressed gratitude to Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali and his team for their ongoing discussions, emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to the project. "We are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves," he added.
The proposed circuit, designed by former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz, will be located near the upcoming Bugesera International Airport,
approximately 40 kilometers from Kigali. Wurz’s company has been collaborating with local authorities and businesses for over a year to create a track that complements the region’s hilly terrain and lakeside setting.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda’s efforts, stating, "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. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright."
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been a vocal advocate for an African Grand Prix. Speaking earlier, Hamilton remarked, "The time's 100% right. We can't be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa." He further highlighted the continent’s potential to attract tourism and global attention through a Grand Prix.
Rwanda has been leveraging sports to boost its international profile, including its sponsorship of Arsenal FC and other initiatives. However, the country has faced scrutiny over its human rights record, with organizations such as Human Rights Watch raising concerns about restrictions on free speech and alleged political repression.
Despite these challenges, the FIA's assembly in Kigali, the first held in Africa, has showcased Rwanda’s ambition and capability to host a world-class motorsport event. While the earliest possible race would be in 2026, Rwanda’s bid positions it as the leading candidate for Africa’s next Formula 1 Grand Prix.
