Formula 1 set to return to Africa after 33 years

Africa is set to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix for the first time in 33 years, following previous attempts to bring the sport back to the continent that failed to materialise.

Rwanda has secured an agreement to host the prestigious motorsport event, with plans to develop the necessary infrastructure to meet Formula 1’s requirements.

The announcement was made in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, on October 13, 2026, with President Paul Kagame confirming plans for Formula 1 to return to Africa after a 33-year absence.

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The race is expected to take place on a purpose-built circuit about 40 kilometres south of Kigali as part of a major lakeside development project. Kagame was joined at the announcement by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, and Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1.

Several countries, including South Africa, Nigeria and some North African nations, had expressed interest in hosting a Grand Prix. However, Rwanda has emerged as the country pursuing the hosting agreement.

The agreement spans 10 years, with the inaugural race expected to take place in the early 2030s, potentially in 2030, 2031 or 2032. The timeline is intended to give Rwanda sufficient time to ensure the circuit meets the required FIA Grade 1 standards for hosting Formula 1 races.

The circuit will be designed by Alex Wurz, chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, with the Tilke engineering company, known for its involvement in the design of several modern Formula 1 circuits, also expected to be involved in the project.

Africa has been absent from the Formula 1 calendar since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. The planned return would mark a significant development for the sport, which has long faced calls to re-establish a presence on the continent.

SB/JKB

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