Rwanda’s F1 bid has been officially launched in a major move that aims to bring the prestigious Grand Prix event back to Africa for the first time in over three decades.
The announcement was made by Rwandan President Paul Kagame during the opening of the FIA’s General Assembly and Prize Giving Ceremony held in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.
The official launch of Rwanda’s F1 bid marks a pivotal moment as it highlights Rwanda’s commitment to reviving F1 racing on the continent, which last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit in South Africa.
Kagame’s announcement comes as part of broader efforts to position Rwanda as a global sports destination, leveraging its infrastructure development and commitment to innovation.
“I am happy to formally announce Rwanda’s F1 bid to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa, by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix,” the Rwandan President said as he opened the FIA General Assemblies in Kigali on Friday.
“A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali, and the entire team at Formula 1, for the good progress in our discussions so far.
“I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment, which it deserves. Together, we will build something we can all be proud of.”
Should Rwanda’s F1 bid get approval, the proposed Grand Prix would take place on a new permanent circuit located near the Bugesera International Airport, approximately 40 kilometers south of Kigali.
The design of this circuit is being led by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz, whose company has been working closely with local authorities and advisors for over a year to create a fast and flowing track that integrates the area’s hilly topography alongside a picturesque lake.
The decision to launch Rwanda’s F1 bid aligns with broader goals within the country’s strategic plan to use sports as a catalyst for economic growth and tourism enhancement. Hosting an event of this magnitude could significantly boost local economies through job creation and increased tourism revenue.
Kagame remarked on the importance of providing all countries, regardless of their income level, an equal opportunity to host international sporting events, challenging outdated perceptions about non-traditional host nations.
F1’s return to Africa has been a topic of discussion among motorsport executives for several years. Domenicali has been vocal about his desire to see Formula One racing back on the continent, recognizing Africa’s potential as a vibrant market for motorsport.
In previous statements, Domenicali described Rwanda’s F1 bid as “serious,” as he revealed discussions have been ongoing since at least September when Rwandan officials met with F1 representatives during various motorsport events.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also met with Rwandan Sports Minister Richard Nyirishema during this week’s assembly. He praised the country’s growing influence in motorsport and expressed optimism about future collaborations between FIA and Rwandan authorities.
“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,” Ben Sulayem said.
“We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”
The excitement surrounding Rwanda’s bid has garnered support from notable figures in the sport, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton who has long advocated for an African stop on the F1 calendar.
Despite this optimism, challenges remain ahead for Rwanda’s F1 bid. The country would need to make a huge investment—estimated at around $270 million—to construct the new Grand Prix track, along with an annual maintenance budget of approximately $18.5 million.
Furthermore, while discussions have progressed positively no formal agreement has yet been reached regarding race dates or specific terms.
