Rwanda to host F1's first race in Africa since 1993

What the report says

Rwanda has signed a 10-year agreement with Formula 1 to host a new African Grand Prix, with races due to begin in the early 2030s, according to BBC Africa. The event would take place on a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of Kigali and near the capital’s new international airport. If completed as planned, it would be the first Formula 1 race in Africa since 1993.

The BBC reports that the track is being designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, with involvement from Tilke and DAR, and is intended to use Rwanda’s hilly terrain and elevation changes to create a fast, flowing course. F1 said the project reflects years of planning and aims to deliver a sustainable, long-term venue. Rwanda’s president, Paul Kagame, said the race should create jobs, skills, tourism and wider economic benefits beyond a single race weekend.

Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali called the deal a major milestone that would put the championship on every inhabited continent. The report notes that the race could face criticism from human rights groups and others who accuse Rwanda of sportswashing, a controversy that has followed some of the country’s other international sports partnerships. F1 has not yet announced where the race will fit into the calendar.