Rwanda is reportedly set to bring Formula 1 back to Africa in 2030, with the country planning to build a new circuit near Kigali for a potential Grand Prix.
According to RacingNews365, multiple sources within the Formula 1 paddock said an agreement had been reached for Rwanda to join the F1 calendar, although the sport is yet to make an official announcement.
The proposed race would be held at a new permanent circuit planned about 40 kilometres from Kigali, near Bugesera International Airport.
Rwanda currently has no circuit capable of hosting a Formula 1 race. The proposed track is expected to be designed by WurzDesign, founded by former F1 driver and circuit designer Alexander Wurz, in collaboration with Tilke Engineering.
The plan follows years of efforts by President Paul Kagame to bring the championship to Rwanda. The country formally announced its intention to bid for a Grand Prix during the FIA General Assemblies and Prize Giving Ceremony in Kigali in 2024.
Kagame has since remained in contact with Formula 1 and FIA officials, including F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
If confirmed, the Rwanda race would end Formula 1's 37-year absence from Africa. The continent last hosted an F1 Grand Prix in 1993, when the South African Grand Prix was held at Kyalami.
The prospect of an African return has also received support from leading drivers. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has repeatedly called for Formula 1 to race in Africa, while Max Verstappen and George Russell have also welcomed the possibility.
However, the reported Rwanda agreement has not been formally announced by Formula 1.
The proposed 2030 Grand Prix will also depend on the construction of the new circuit and the completion of the required regulatory and sporting approvals.
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