Formula 1 will return to Africa in the early 2030s, with Rwanda set to host the African Grand Prix under a 10-year deal. The race will end the continent’s long absence from the motorsport’s calendar.

Formula 1 announced the agreement in a statement on Tuesday. The race will take place after the completion of a new 6-kilometre circuit in Bugesera, Rwanda.

Rwanda Grand Prix to boost tourism

The purpose-built circuit is expected to be ready in the early 2030s. It will sit alongside a new international airport as Rwanda seeks to attract more tourists and businesses.

“With Rwanda joining the calendar from the next decade, our sport will race in every inhabited continent, bringing the World Championship closer than ever to fans around the globe,” Formula 1 President and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali said. “Africa is home to more than 100 million Formula 1 fans, and that number continues to grow rapidly.”

Rwanda President Paul Kagame also welcomed the agreement. He said the project would bring economic benefits to the country and its neighbours.

“The circuit in Bugesera, alongside the new international airport, will bring jobs, skills, tourism and new business to our country and our region for decades to come,” he said.

Formula 1 to end Africa’s long wait

The deal will bring Formula 1 back to Africa after more than three decades. The continent last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami Raceway, north of Johannesburg, South Africa.

French driver Alain Prost won that race. Since then, Africa has remained absent from the championship calendar.

Rwanda has stepped up its investment in international sports partnerships over the past decade. The country has signed high-profile deals with English football club Arsenal and French side Paris Saint-Germain.

These partnerships form part of Rwanda’s efforts to attract international visitors and promote itself as a luxury tourism and business destination.

Formula 1 seeks global expansion

Liberty Media Corp., which holds Formula 1’s commercial rights, has long sought to expand the championship’s presence in Africa.

The Rwanda agreement marks a major step towards that goal. It will also help Formula 1 reach fans across every inhabited continent.

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