F1 Set to Return to Africa With 2030 Rwanda Grand Prix

Formula 1 is set to resume a visit to Africa with the announcement of a proposed Grand Prix in Rwanda for the 2030 season, according to sources within the sport. The return marks the first time the prestigious racing event has been scheduled for the continent since 1993, when the South African Grand Prix was held at Kyalami. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has been a driving force behind the bid, hosting FIA General Assemblies and Prize Giving Ceremonies in his capital city, Kigali, in 2024.

Despite skepticism from some in the F1 community over the lack of a suitable venue in Rwanda, the country has reportedly secured an agreement to build a permanent circuit, with designs leaked previously. The new track is to be constructed approximately 40 kilometers outside Kigali, near the Bugesera International Airport, and will be designed by WurzDesign, led by former F1 racer Alexander Wurz, in collaboration with Tilke Engineering, who worked on Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya Speed Park.

The announcement has drawn backing from prominent figures in the sport, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, Lewis Hamilton, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.