Formula 1 Set to Return to Africa with a Grand Prix in Rwanda
By Mwambazi Lawrence
Formula 1 is edging closer to its long-awaited return to the African continent, with Rwanda officially announcing its bid to host a Grand Prix. The proposed race would take place on a new track near the planned Bugesera Airport, just outside the capital, Kigali, bringing the high-speed spectacle back to Africa after a 25-year hiatus.
President Paul Kagame and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem (R) during a cocktail reception
The circuit, designed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz, promises to be a challenging and visually stunning addition to the F1 calendar. The track will take full advantage of the hilly terrain surrounding the airport site, featuring a flowing layout that will wind through forests and around a scenic lake. Wurz’s company has been collaborating with the Rwandan government and local representatives on the project for over a year, and it is quickly gaining momentum.
Wurz, who is also responsible for the design of the new Qiddiya track in Saudi Arabia – set to host its own F1 race in 2028 or 2029 – has brought his extensive experience in motorsport architecture to this ambitious project. The Rwandan Grand Prix would be held on a permanent circuit, a critical feature emphasized by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. In a statement made earlier this year, Domenicali expressed confidence in Rwanda’s commitment to the event, noting that the country had presented a well-thought-out plan for the race.
“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,” said Rwandan President Paul Kagame, ahead of the FIA’s Prize Gala in Kigali on Friday. He also expressed his gratitude to Domenicali and the F1 team for their collaboration, reinforcing the nation’s determination to bring this major event to life.
The bid marks the culmination of months of efforts by F1 and the FIA to reintroduce the sport to Africa, a continent that has not hosted an F1 race since the South African Grand Prix in 1993. Domenicali had been in talks with Rwandan officials for some time, with discussions intensifying throughout 2023. He also acknowledged the significance of the project, emphasizing that Rwanda’s commitment and progress were impressive.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also highlighted the importance of Rwanda’s growing influence in motorsport, praising the nation’s values in innovation, sustainability, and road safety, which align with the FIA’s goals. “The future of motorsport in Africa is bright,” he said, underscoring the strength of Rwanda’s motorsport initiatives.
The push for an African Grand Prix has received widespread support from the F1 community, including from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Earlier this year, Hamilton stated that it was long overdue for the sport to return to Africa, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of having a race on the continent.
As the bid moves forward, it is clear that Rwanda is serious about bringing F1 back to Africa, and the excitement surrounding the proposed race is palpable. With discussions progressing and the track design taking shape, Rwanda could soon join the ranks of other motorsport powerhouses, marking a new era for Formula 1 in Africa.
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