In a historic move to bring Formula One back to the African continent, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has officially announced the country’s bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix. The announcement came during the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) General Assembly held in Kigali, just ahead of the awards ceremony honoring Max Verstappen as the 2024 F1 champion.
Formula One has not held a race in Africa since the last South African Grand Prix at Kyalami in 1993. Kagame expressed his enthusiasm about the discussions with Formula One leadership, emphasizing Rwanda’s dedication to this opportunity.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula One Grand Prix,” Kagame said. “I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves. Together, we will build something we can all be proud of.”
Media reports suggest that the proposed circuit will be near the Bugesera International Airport, currently under construction, approximately 40 kilometers from Kigali. Austrian former F1 driver Alexander Wurz’s design company is reportedly involved in planning the permanent circuit.
Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali, who has been in discussions with Rwanda, has praised the progress so far. Seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has also voiced his support for an African Grand Prix, highlighting the continent’s rich cultural and economic potential.
Also, read; Cameroon Becomes First Importer of Dangote Refinery’s Petroleum Products
“The time’s 100% right,” Hamilton stated earlier this year. “We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa… Having a Grand Prix there will highlight just how great the place is, bring in tourism, and create new opportunities.”
The FIA General Assembly being held in Africa for the first time underscores the continent’s growing influence in motorsport. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda’s leadership and its alignment with key FIA priorities such as sustainability, innovation, and road safety.
“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 remarked.
Interestingly, Max Verstappen, the reigning F1 champion, is currently undertaking community service in Rwanda as part of a penalty for unsportsmanlike behavior during the Singapore Grand Prix. His project involves the Affordable Cross Car initiative, which produces locally built vehicles from FIA-provided blueprints.
President Kagame’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for motorsport in Africa. If successful, Rwanda’s bid could significantly boost tourism, investment, and global recognition for the country. Kagame, widely credited for transforming Rwanda into a stable and thriving nation following the 1994 genocide, continues to push for innovative avenues to cement the nation’s prominence on the global stage.
The race to host a Formula One Grand Prix in Africa is heating up, and Rwanda’s bid promises a future of exciting possibilities for both motorsport enthusiasts and the continent as a whole.
