Formula 1 signs ten year deal for African Grand Prix in Rwanda

Formula 1 has signed a 10-year contract to host a Grand Prix in Rwanda starting in the early 2030s, DW, The Guardian, and BBC Sport reported on Tuesday. The event will be named the African Grand Prix, according to DW. It marks the return of Formula 1 racing to the continent for the first time since 1993, DW, The Guardian, and the Daily Mail reported. [1][4][5][6]

Because no suitable race venue currently exists, Rwanda will construct a new track in Bugesera, which is located southeast of the capital city Kigali, according to DW. The Guardian reported that F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali called the announcement a landmark moment for the sport. The Guardian also noted that the move answers long-standing calls from seven-time world champion driver Lewis Hamilton for Formula 1 to stage a race in Africa. [1][4][13]

The country's capital and largest city, Kigali, is located at the center of the landlocked East African nation, 1,567 metres above sea level. Formula 1 stated that the newly planned circuit is expected to be completed early in the next decade, according to DW. [1][13]

The Daily Mail reported that the deal will run for 10 seasons, with the initial race expected to take place in approximately 2032. DW reported that the agreement represents a continuation of the country's ongoing investment in hosting international sporting events. [1][6]