Rwanda wants to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, the country’s President Paul Kagame has said.
F1 wants to organize a race in Africa and talks with Rwanda have been known for several months.
The FIA, F1’s governing body, is holding its general assembly and awards ceremony in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, and Kagame has chosen this opening to put his official seal on the Grand Prix project.
“I am happy to officially announce that Rwanda wants to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa, by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix.”
“Many thanks to F1 President Stefano Domenicali and the entire F1 team for the good progress made in our discussions so far.”
“I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.”
If an agreement can be reached, the race would take place on a new track planned near the new Bugesera airport, outside Kigali.
The designer of the track is Alexander Wurz, a former F1 driver and president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association.
Wurz’s company has been working on the track with advisors, businesses and local authorities for more than a year. The fast and flowing circuit is built alongside a lake and takes advantage of the region’s hilly topography.
Wurz is also designing the new Qiddiyah track in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to be completed in 2028 and host a Grand Prix in 2029.
F1 had previously tried to revive a Grand Prix in South Africa at the Kyalami circuit, which last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993, but talks broke down due to problems with the local promoter.
The Rwandan project is now considered the most likely for an African Grand Prix, but the project is not yet confirmed.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met Rwandan Sports Minister Richard Nyirishema during the general assembly.
“Being here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA calendar is testament to the strength of this nation, particularly its growing influence in motorsport.”
“We share our common values and goals in 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.”
One of the financiers behind this project is already known: Christoper Aleo with the iSwiss bank (find our article here).
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