--- title: "Rwanda Secures Deal with Formula 1 to Host Racing Events" url: https://noti.group/rwanda-secures-deal-with-formula-1-to-host-racing-events/ language: en publisher: "Noti Group" section: "Sports" published: 2026-10-13T09:20:09.000Z updated: 2026-10-13T16:33:59.334Z id: 7c2fcb79-567b-4197-b154-4b98404d1cce source: "BBC Sport https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/articles/c5rmy3v3mn9jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss" attribution: "Link to https://noti.group/rwanda-secures-deal-with-formula-1-to-host-racing-events/ and name Noti Group when you quote or summarize this story." --- # Rwanda Secures Deal with Formula 1 to Host Racing Events The agreement will see the first Formula 1 race take place on a new circuit in Bugesera, located just south of Kigali and near the city's international airport. Rwanda has secured a major deal with Formula 1 to host racing events in the African country over the next decade. The agreement will see the first Formula 1 race take place on a new circuit in Bugesera, located just south of Kigali and near the city's international airport. The event, known as the African Grand Prix, will be held on a specially designed track created by Alex Wurz, a former Formula 1 driver. The circuit has been designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, utilizing the natural elevation changes in the area to create a unique racing experience for drivers and spectators alike. Formula 1 officials have emphasized that this project represents years of collaboration to establish a solid foundation for a successful grand prix. According to the organization, the goal is to deliver a sustainable and world-class event that will be enjoyed by generations of fans both locally and internationally. The new circuit in Bugesera is expected to serve as a platform for Formula 1 to expand its presence in Africa, a relatively untapped market compared to other parts of the world. The exact timing of the inaugural Formula 1 African Grand Prix in Rwanda is still up in the air as organizers weigh their options. A main concern is fitting the event into an already packed schedule without disrupting the flow of the season. The sport's governing body has a self-imposed cap of 24 races per year, and they will need to carefully consider where to slot this new addition. Rwanda's rainy seasons are a major factor in determining the optimal time for the race. While the main rain season from March to May might be best avoided due to potential disruptions, there is a shorter and less chaotic wet period from October to November that could provide a more suitable window. The decision on when to stage the event will ultimately depend on various logistical considerations. F1 officials are likely to weigh up the pros and cons of each possible date before making a final call. Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has expressed his pride in hosting the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, hailing it as an opportunity for young people across Africa to see themselves represented in the sport. Racing on every inhabited continent is set to become a reality for Formula 1 after a new contract was announced, marking a significant milestone in the sport's history. F1 president Stefano Domenicali described this development as a landmark moment, emphasizing that Africa has long been considered an essential part of the sport's future plans. He expressed enthusiasm about returning to the continent with the right partner and commitment, aiming to create meaningful impact through their presence. Human rights groups are likely to voice opposition to the move, accusing Rwanda of using its sponsorship of Premier League clubs Arsenal and Aston Villa as a form of sportswashing. This criticism is not isolated, as Rwanda's east-central African neighbour, the Democratic Republic of Congo, has filed a case against it at the International Court of Justice. The construction of the new track will be overseen by three companies, including long-time F1 track architect Tilke and DAR, who will work alongside WurzDesign to create the circuit. A spokesperson for F1 highlighted the potential benefits of bringing the sport to 100 million people across Africa, suggesting that it can be a positive force for good in the region. The new F1 circuit in Rwanda is expected to be an exhilarating experience for drivers and spectators alike, thanks to its unique design that leverages the country's hilly terrain to create a fast-paced and flowing track. Rwanda will become the third African nation to host a Formula One Grand Prix, following Morocco in 1958 and South Africa from 1960-66. The latter country also hosted two races in 1992 and 1993 at the Kyalami circuit near Johannesburg. The return of F1 to Africa marks an exciting development for motorsport fans on the continent, with Rwanda's natural contours set to provide a thrilling challenge for drivers. --- Source: [BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/articles/c5rmy3v3mn9jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) Published by Noti Group: https://noti.group/rwanda-secures-deal-with-formula-1-to-host-racing-events/