Formula 1 returns to Africa with Rwanda Grand Prix
F1 signed a ten-year agreement to stage the African Grand Prix in Bugesera, near Kigali's new international airport; circuit will seat about 100,000.
Formula 1 officially confirmed on October 13, 2026 that the world championship will return to Africa after signing a ten-year agreement with Rwanda to host the African Grand Prix. The last Formula 1 race held on the continent took place in South Africa in 1993.
New circuit planned in Bugesera
The new track will be built in Bugesera, roughly 40 kilometres south of Kigali, close to the country's new international airport. The project calls for a modern FIA-standard circuit with seating for about 100,000 spectators.
Former F1 driver Alex Wurz and the design team of renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke will take part in the track design. Organisers say the layout will follow the natural terrain and include significant elevation changes intended to produce entertaining and challenging races.
Formula 1 Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali described the deal as a historic moment for the sport and said Africa has long been part of F1's global expansion plans. Rwandan President Paul Kagame said he expects the project to create jobs, attract investment and boost tourism.
The ten-year agreement marks the first sustained presence of the championship in Africa since the early 1990s and represents a strategic step in Formula 1's calendar development as it seeks new markets and venues.
Photo: Formula 1 @F1 (X)
