Formula 1 is set to make its historic return to the African continent for the first time in more than three decades after the sport’s governing body confirmed that Rwanda will host a future Grand Prix in the early 2030s. The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced a commitment to a 10-year race deal, pointing to the expanding global footprint of the motorsport and emphasizing the significant growth opportunities presented by Africa’s young and enthusiastic fan base.
Rwanda secured the hosting rights after successfully beating out a competing bid from South Africa. Speaking at the official launch event in the nation’s capital, Kigali, President Paul Kagame celebrated the milestone, declaring to attendees that the achievement belongs to the entire African continent.
Securing the Grand Prix aligns with Rwanda’s broader national strategy to expand its portfolio of high-profile international events, a push designed to elevate the country’s global investment standing and tourism profile. The upcoming race will mark the first time a Formula 1 championship event has been held on African soil since the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami in 1993.
The announcement has also drawn criticism from international human rights organizations. Amnesty International has publicly accused the FIA of awarding the country a sportwashing prize, citing government accusations regarding the arbitrary detention and torture of political opponents, as well as allegations that Kigali is stoking ongoing conflict in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwandan authorities have consistently denied all of these allegations.
Preparations for the race and the infrastructure required to host a modern Formula 1 event are expected to unfold over the coming years as the sport works toward its eventual debut in the country in the early 2030s.
