Rwanda’s bid to host a Formula 1 race has reportedly received approval, with a formal announcement expected in Kigali.
A government official said an agreement had been reached, while a source close to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) said an announcement was expected the following week, with Qatar supporting the project.
President Paul Kagame formally announced Rwanda’s bid in December 2024, when the country hosted an FIA gathering, and has since pursued plans to bring the sport back to Africa.
The development could also please seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has repeatedly called for Formula 1 to return to the continent. Hamilton backed Rwanda’s ambitions in 2024 and described the country as one of his favourite places.
Rwanda has increasingly used sports to promote its international profile, securing sponsorship deals with football clubs Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, partnering with the NBA to develop basketball in Africa and hosting the 2025 UCI Road World Championships.
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However, the country’s sporting ambitions have attracted criticism from opponents who accuse the government of using major events and sponsorships to improve its international image amid concerns over human rights and restrictions on political opposition.
Rwanda is not the only African country seeking to secure a place on the Formula 1 calendar.
Nigeria has appointed Opus Racing Promotions to engage with Formula One Management and the FIA over a proposed race in Abuja, reportedly part of a $500 million project.
South Africa is also pursuing a return to the sport, having hosted 23 Formula 1 World Championship races between 1962 and 1993.
Former Sibanye-Stillwater executive chairman Neal Froneman was exploring a R6.7 billion ($402 million) motorsport and property development in the Western Cape that could bring Formula 1 back to the country by 2031.
South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has maintained that Rwanda’s progress would not end his country’s ambitions, saying South Africa could still host a race before 2030.
