Formula 1 is set to return to the African continent, with Rwanda reportedly chosen to host a new Grand Prix from 2030. Reliable paddock sources indicate that an agreement has already been reached, while an official announcement could arrive before the end of the year, potentially within the coming weeks.
The development would represent another important step in Formula 1’s global expansion, with Rwanda preparing to build a completely new permanent circuit for the event.
Paul Kagame’s push for a Rwanda Formula 1 Grand Prix
Rwandan president Paul Kagame has worked intensively in recent years to bring Formula 1 to his country. In 2024, at his initiative, Kigali hosted the FIA General Assemblies and the FIA Prize Giving Ceremony. On that occasion, following months of speculation, Paul Kagame publicly announced Rwanda’s intention to submit a bid for a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The announcement was initially met with scepticism because the country did not yet have a circuit suitable for Formula 1, but the plans never stopped progressing. Paul Kagame has continued to follow developments closely, attending the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix and maintaining regular contact with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
New permanent F1 circuit planned near Kigali
Rwanda has now reportedly decided to build a permanent race circuit based on plans that had already emerged previously. The facility is expected to be constructed approximately 40 kilometres from Kigali, close to Bugesera International Airport.
The design has been entrusted to WurzDesign, the company founded by former Formula 1 driver and circuit designer Alexander Wurz. The company is currently also working alongside Tilke Engineering on the Qiddiya Speed Park project in Saudi Arabia.
David Coulthard hints at imminent Africa announcement
Shortly before the latest information emerged, David Coulthard made significant comments about Formula 1’s return to Africa. Speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, the former Formula 1 driver suggested that an official announcement was approaching.
“I’m hearing rumours that we’ll have an announcement for Africa soon. So, we’re going to be going to Africa,” David Coulthard said.
David Coulthard made the comments while discussing possible additions to the Formula 1 calendar, highlighting the difficulty of fitting further races into a schedule already comprising 24 events.
Formula 1 is therefore reportedly preparing to return to Africa, with Rwanda selected as the destination from 2030 and a completely new permanent circuit planned for the Grand Prix.
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