Rwanda has officially announced its bid to host a Formula 1 race at a newly designed circuit near the upcoming Bugesera airport, located just outside the capital, Kigali. The ambitious project will see a spectacular track built on the country’s hilly terrain, taking full advantage of the natural landscape.
Alexander Wurz, a former Formula 1 driver, and his company have been collaborating with the Rwandan government and local officials on the project for over a year to design the circuit. The proposed layout promises a fast and flowing design, winding through forests and around a nearby lake, providing a visually stunning backdrop for the race.
Wurz, who is also designing the Qiddiya track in Saudi Arabia—set to host the country’s F1 race in 2028 or 2029—has brought significant expertise to the Rwandan project. The bid represents a major milestone in the broader effort by Formula 1 and the FIA to reestablish grand prix racing on the African continent.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has discussed the proposal with Rwandan officials for several months, and his remarks in August indicated that they were taking the country’s proposal seriously. Domenicali confirmed that the plans involved a permanent racing facility and expressed confidence in the project’s potential.
Speaking ahead of the FIA’s Prize Gala in Kigali, Rwandan President Paul Kagame officially confirmed the country’s bid to bring F1 back to Africa.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 grand prix,” Kagame said. “A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at F1 for the good progress in our discussions so far.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who also met with Rwanda’s Sports Minister Richard Nyirishema at the event, praised the country’s growing influence in motorsport. He expressed enthusiasm about Rwanda’s alignment with FIA values in areas such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety.
“The future of motorsport in Africa is bright,” said Ben Sulayem. “To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment is a testament to the strength of this nation.”
The push to bring F1 back to Africa has gained widespread support, including from F1 driver Lewis Hamilton, who has been vocal about the absence of a race on the continent. Earlier this year, Hamilton emphasized the importance of hosting a Grand Prix in Africa.
“We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa,” Hamilton said. “No one gives anything to Africa. There’s a huge amount of work to be done, but having a grand prix there would highlight the continent’s beauty and bring in tourism, making it a global destination.”
With its rich cultural history and stunning landscapes, Africa has long been seen as an untapped potential for Formula 1, and Rwanda’s bid is poised to pave the way for a historic return of the sport to the continent.
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