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Rwanda Makes Historic Bid as Formula One Considers Africa’s First Return in Three Decades

Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, has announced that the country intends to host a Formula One race.

F1 has not been held in Africa since the last South African Grand Prix in 1993.

Rwanda president Paul Kagame wants to host an F1 race

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Rwanda President Paul Kagame is eager for his country to host a Formula One raceCredit: Reuters

Max Verstappen was presented with his trophy for securing a fourth consecutive world title during a ceremony in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

Kagame spoke to the audience at the event, addressing the FIA’s General Assembly: “I am thrilled to formally announce that Rwanda is seeking the opportunity to rejuvenate racing in Africa by hosting a Formula One Grand Prix.”

“Many thanks to (F1 CEO) Stefano Domenicali and the entire F1 team for the constructive progress in our discussions thus far.”

“I can assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the respect and dedication it rightfully commands.”

“Together, we can create something we can all be proud of.”

Domenicali noted in August that Rwanda aims to host a race on a permanent venue.

Reports indicate that the racetrack, to be designed by a team led by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz from Austria, will be located near a new international airport currently under construction 40 kilometers from Kigali.

Lewis Hamilton suggested in August that the time is right for a return to Africa, and he is actively collaborating with both Rwanda and South Africa to make this happen.

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The seven-time world champion stated, “The timing couldn’t be better. We can’t keep adding races in other regions while neglecting Africa, a continent that often gets exploited without any reciprocation.”

“Having a Grand Prix in Africa would truly highlight the continent’s magnificence and enhance tourism and various opportunities. It’s time we acknowledged Africa.”

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This week marks the first instance of the FIA conducting its general assemblies in Africa, where FIA’s Emirati President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Rwanda’s Sports Minister Richard Nyirihishema convened earlier in Kigali.

Ben Sulayem remarked, “Holding our meetings in Rwanda during such a significant time in the FIA’s calendar underscores the strength of this nation and its increasing influence on motorsport.”

“We have shared values and goals in critical areas such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I am excited about our continued partnership.”

“The future of motorsport in Africa looks bright.”

Verstappen is also participating in “community service” in Rwanda following an incident at a press conference during the Singapore Grand Prix in October.

This initiative involves creating an FIA Affordable Cross Car, designed locally in Rwanda, based on specifications provided by the governing body.

F1 2025 grid

Here are the confirmed driver lineups for the F1 2025 season to date:

Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez

Ferrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton

Mercedes: George Russell and Kimi Antonelli

McLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll

Williams: Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz

Sauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto

Alpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan

RB: Yuki Tsunoda and TBC

Haas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon

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