Rwanda to host first African Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2030 after agreement reached

African continent set for first F1 race in decades

Rwanda is set to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2030, marking the first race on African soil in decades, according to reports.

A source in the Rwandan government told AFP: "Rwanda's bid to host the Formula 1 race has been greenlit, an agreement has been reached." An official announcement is expected in the capital, Kigali, next week, with Qatar supporting the project.

President Paul Kagame formally announced the bid when Rwanda hosted a gathering of the FIA in December 2024. "It all comes down to respect, and giving everyone the chance to contribute, where they can," he said at the time.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has long called for an African stop on the F1 calendar, backing Rwanda's plans in 2024 and calling the country "one of my favourite places."

The nation has used football, basketball and other sports to enhance its image and attract investment as it chases a place on motorsport's biggest stage.