Rwanda secures Formula One deal, bringing Grand Prix racing back to Africa

2026, October 13

Rwanda

Formula One has agreed to a ten-year deal for Rwanda to host a Grand Prix beginning in the early 2030s. The announcement marks a major milestone for African motorsport: Formula One last held a race on the continent in 1993, at South Africa's Kyalami circuit.

The planned circuit will be built near Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of the capital, Kigali, close to a new international airport. Rwanda hopes the event will attract tourists, investment and international attention. The agreement does not rule out a future African race in South Africa as well.

Why it matters: The deal represents a significant expansion of Formula One's global footprint and could provide Rwanda with a long-term boost in tourism and international business.

Source: Reuters — Rwanda to bring F1 back to Africa