Rwanda confirms its bid to host Africa’s F1 race, with a Wurz-designed circuit set near Kigali’s Bugesera Airport.
Rwanda has expressed its intention to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, as announced by the country’s president, Paul Kagame.
Formula 1 has been seeking to organize a race in Africa, and talks with Rwanda have been ongoing for several months.
The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, is holding its general assembly and awards ceremony in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, where Kagame used the occasion to officially endorse the Grand Prix project.
“I am pleased to officially announce that Rwanda intends to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix.”
“My sincere thanks to Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali and the entire F1 team for the significant progress made in our discussions so far.”
“I assure you we approach this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.”
If an agreement is reached, the race would take place on a new track planned near the new Bugesera airport, outside Kigali.
The track designer is Alexander Wurz, a former F1 driver and president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association.
Wurz’s firm has been working on the track alongside advisors, companies, and local authorities for over a year. The circuit, designed to be fast and flowing, runs along a lake and takes advantage of the region’s rolling terrain.
Wurz is also designing the new Qiddiyah track in Saudi Arabia, set to be completed by 2028 and host a Grand Prix in 2029.
F1 had previously attempted to revive a South African Grand Prix at the Kyalami circuit, which last hosted a race in 1993, but discussions collapsed due to issues with the local promoter.
The Rwandan project is now seen as the most likely candidate for an African Grand Prix, though it remains unconfirmed.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema, during the General Assembly.
“Being here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA calendar highlights the strength of this nation, particularly its growing influence in motorsport.”
“We share common values and goals in key areas such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to continuing our partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”
One financier behind the project is already known: Christopher Aleo, backed by iSwiss bank.
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Kigali Eyes Africa’s First F1 Circuit Kigali Eyes Africa’s First F1 Circuit
