KIGALI, Rwanda — Formula 1 will return to Africa in the early 2030s under a 10-year agreement to race at a purpose-built circuit in Rwanda, the organization announced Tuesday.
The first race depends on completion of the circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of Kigali. Formula 1 said the track will meet the FIA’s Grade 1 standard.
The venue will sit next to the new Kigali International Airport. Rwanda’s development board is leading a broader project that includes sports, tourism, infrastructure and commercial development.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the agreement will put the championship on every inhabited continent. The organization says it has more than 100 million fans across Africa.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame called the deal a long-term investment in the country. He said the project is expected to create jobs, build skills and attract tourism and new business.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the governing body will work with Formula 1 and its Rwandan partners as the circuit is developed to international standards.
Africa last hosted a Formula 1 race at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993.
The date of the first Rwandan race has not been set. Formula 1 said it will announce construction milestones and race-weekend plans later.
