F1 in Rwanda: What the African Grand Prix Announcement Confirms

It’s official: Formula 1 is planning a return to Africa, and Rwanda is set to host the action.

On 13 October 2026, Formula 1 announced a 10-year agreement for the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, with the first race expected in the early 2030s. It would mark F1’s return to the African continent for the first time since 1993.

Where will the race take place?

The planned circuit will be built in Bugesera, about 40 kilometres south of Kigali, next to the new Kigali International Airport. It is intended to meet FIA Grade 1 standards and form part of a wider sports, tourism and commercial development project led by the Rwanda Development Board.

Why is this a big moment?

Beyond the racing, the project aims to create opportunities in tourism, investment, skills development and local business. It also puts Rwanda at the centre of F1’s return to a continent where the sport already has a large and growing audience.

When is the first race?

There is one important detail fans should know: the exact inaugural race date has not been announced. Formula 1 says further information about construction milestones and race-weekend plans will follow.

Watch President Paul Kagame’s remarks on the F1 African Grand Prix announcement, and read the official Formula 1 announcement.

The deal is signed. Now, fans will be watching for the next milestone: turning the plan into a real racing destination.