Formula 1 Announces 10‑Year Return to Africa with Rwanda Grand Prix
F1 will race in Rwanda for the next decade, marking its first African event since 1994.
Formula 1 has officially announced a 10‑year agreement to stage its first African Grand Prix in Rwanda, a landmark move that ends a 26‑year absence from the continent. Per Sportstar and Qazinform, the new race will be held at the newly built Kigali International Circuit, which opened in 2023 and meets FIA Grade 1 standards. The partnership, signed in late September, is part of F1’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint and tap into emerging markets.
The Kigali track, a 5.4‑km layout with 17 turns, is the first purpose‑built F1 circuit in Africa. It offers a mix of high‑speed straights and technical corners that will challenge teams and drivers alike. The inaugural race is scheduled for 2025, with subsequent events to follow on a biennial basis as part of the 2025‑2034 calendar. The deal also includes a commitment to invest in local infrastructure and motorsport development programmes, aiming to nurture a new generation of African racing talent.
From an Indian perspective, the addition of Rwanda to the calendar means another exciting weekend for fans. The 2025 Grand Prix will take place in late March, a slot that typically falls between the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races. Indian viewers can catch the live broadcast on FanCode, which will provide full coverage in Hindi and English. The race will also be available on the official F1 app, offering real‑time telemetry and team radio commentary.
For India, the Rwanda Grand Prix presents an opportunity to see how a new circuit will affect race strategy, tyre management, and driver performance. Analysts will be keen to observe how teams adapt to the track’s unique characteristics, especially as the first African event in decades. Fans can look forward to a blend of high‑octane racing and a showcase of Africa’s growing motorsport culture.
Source: Sportstar, Qazinform, AutohebdoF1, McLaren