Formula 1 is preparing to return to Africa after more than three decades away from the continent. On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the championship announced a ten-year agreement with Rwanda. The country is expected to join the global racing calendar in the early 2030s.
The first race is planned for a new circuit in Bugesera, southeast of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. However, the circuit’s final specifications and exact opening date have yet to be confirmed.
Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as a historic moment for the sport. He said the partnership would help strengthen the championship’s presence across the world. Meanwhile, Rwandan President Paul Kagame welcomed the deal as an important milestone for Africa. He also expressed hope that it would encourage other countries on the continent to host races.
The last Formula 1 Grand Prix held in Africa took place in 1993 at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit. French driver Alain Prost won that race. Morocco had also hosted a world championship race in Casablanca in 1958.
This announcement also advances an ambition long supported by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has repeatedly called for Formula 1 to return to Africa. Rwanda hopes to use the event to attract more tourists, investment and international attention.
The country has already partnered with major European football clubs, including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. It also hosted the UCI Road World Championships in 2025. However, this sports strategy has attracted criticism from observers who accuse Rwanda of “sportswashing.” They argue that major sporting events can improve the country’s international image while drawing attention away from concerns about human rights and opposition repression.
South Africa, which has also been seeking to bring Formula 1 back, was not selected in this announcement. Nevertheless, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said the country would continue working towards hosting a race before 2030.
The agreement with Rwanda marks a significant development for Formula 1’s expansion into new markets. It also leaves open the possibility of further races on the African continent in the future.
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