Formula 1’s return to Africa has been officially confirmed – the premier class will race in Rwanda in the coming years, as soon as a circuit is built there
What had already been in the pipeline became official on Tuesday: Formula 1 is finally returning to Africa. The top flight has announced a ten-year agreement with Rwanda. In future, a race there is to be held under the title ‘African Grand Prix’.
Curiously, there is no exact start date yet. The press release merely states that the Grand Prix is to be held for the first time “in the early 2030s”. Fans will therefore have to wait at least another four years for the race.
The last time Formula 1 raced in Africa was in 1993, at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in South Africa. The return will take place in Rwanda on a completely new circuit in Bugesera, which has yet to be built.
Formula 1 has stated: “Under this long-term agreement, the country’s first race will take place as soon as the new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda, is completed, which is expected to be at the start of the next decade.”
Bugesera is situated around 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kigali. The press release goes on to say of the circuit: “It will be designed to blend harmoniously into the natural landscape. The variations in elevation in the area will be utilised to create a unique and challenging racing experience whilst offering fans excellent viewing opportunities.”
The firm Tilke is in charge of the project. Also involved is WurzDesign, the company run by former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz. Outside of race weekends, the facility is to be used as an events centre all year round.
Agreement a “historic moment for our sport”
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame proudly declares: “Today belongs to Africa. For more than three decades, the world’s leading motorsport championship has taken place without this continent. But with this agreement, that is set to change.”
FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem describes the deal as a “historic moment for our sport” and announces: “The FIA will work closely with FOM and our partners to ensure that this new circuit is built to the highest international standards.”
Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali adds: “Today marks a milestone for Formula 1. With Rwanda joining the racing calendar from the next decade, our sport will be represented on every inhabited continent and will bring the World Championship closer to fans around the globe than ever before.”
“Africa has always been part of Formula 1’s future, and from the very beginning we were determined to return in the right way – with the right partner, a long-term commitment and a clear vision to make a lasting impact,” said the Italian.
