F1 Signs 10-Year Rwanda Grand Prix Deal

Formula 1 has signed a 10-year agreement with Rwanda to stage an African Grand Prix in Bugesera, marking the sport’s return to the continent for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix. The purpose-built circuit is being designed with former F1 driver Alex Wurz and circuit architect Carsten Tilke, near Kigali’s new international airport and using the area’s hills and elevation changes. F1 has given only a broad “early 2030s” timeframe; the debut date and further logistical details remain unconfirmed. Rwanda says the race will boost tourism, investment and sports infrastructure and help attract more African races, while the deal has drawn scrutiny over accusations that the government uses sports partnerships to improve its international image despite human-rights concerns.