Formula 1 announces return to Africa with Grand Prix in Rwanda in early 2030s

Kigali, Rwanda - Formula 1 will resume its presence in Africa with a Grand Prix in the country, beginning in the early 2030s, the series announced on Tuesday. The African Grand Prix will be held at a brand new track in Bugesera, southeast of the capital Kigali, according to F1. The purpose-built circuit will be completed "early next decade."

Rwandan President Paul Kagame hailed the agreement as long overdue and a significant milestone for the continent, particularly for African fans. President Kagame emphasized that the African Grand Prix aims to pave the way for future races on the continent. This move fulfills a long-standing ambition of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, the sole Black driver in Formula 1, who has been advocating for a race in Africa for years.

The last Formula 1 event in Africa was the South African Grand Prix in 1993, a gap of over 40 years since then. Stefano Domenicali, F1's President and CEO, stated that today marks a landmark moment for the organization.