Rwandan President Paul Kagame has officially announced his country’s bid to host a Formula One race, coinciding with an awards ceremony in Kigali where Max Verstappen will receive his fourth consecutive champion’s trophy.
This marks the first time a Formula One event could return to Africa since the last South African Grand Prix in 1993.
In his speech to the FIA General Assembly, Kagame expressed his enthusiasm for the bid, stating, “I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula One Grand Prix.”
He thanked F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and the F1 team for their progress in discussions and reassured that Rwanda is committed to this opportunity with utmost seriousness.
Reports suggest the race would take place at a permanent circuit near Bugesera, about 40 kilometers from Kigali, with the design led by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz.
Additionally, the new international airport being built nearby would further enhance the region’s accessibility.
In August, Lewis Hamilton expressed his support for the race, calling it “100% right” and emphasizing the need to bring F1 to Africa to showcase the continent’s potential and boost tourism.
The FIA’s General Assembly is being held in Africa for the first time, with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Rwanda’s Sports Minister Richard Nyirihishema meeting in Kigali.
Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda’s growing influence in motorsport, highlighting the significance of this moment for the country.
“We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”
Verstappen is also carrying out ‘work of public interest’ in Rwanda as punishment for swearing in a Singapore Grand Prix press conference in October.
The activity involves an Affordable crosscar built locally in Rwanda from blueprints provided by the FIA.
Kagame has won praise from Western and regional leaders for helping to end the 1994 genocide in Rwanda and rebuilding the country into an attractive destination for investment and aid.
But he also stands accused of a brutal crackdown on critics at home and supporting the M23 rebel group in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, who rights groups say are guilty of killings, rapes and other apparent war crimes.
He has repeatedly denied the allegations.
