All flights lead to Rwanda from 2030, as the African country has signed a 10-year deal to host the African Grand Prix.
The last Formula 1 race held in Africa was the South African Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami Circuit in South Africa. Since then, Formula 1 has not returned to the continent for several reasons, including the high cost of hosting races, a lack of financial support and sponsorship, and competition from countries in Asia and the Middle East that could offer more money to the sport.
South Africa and Morocco also showed interest in bringing Formula 1 back to Africa. The race will be held at the new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and near the country’s new international airport.
Addressing the media, Rwanda President Paul Kagame said, “Today belongs to Africa. For more than three decades, the world’s premier motorsport championship has raced without this continent.
“Rwanda is proud to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, and to share this moment with more than 100 million fans across Africa.”
For years now, seven-time world Champion Lewis Hamilton has been pushing for the F1 to be hosted in Africa. The 41-year-old has been open about Africa being high on his career bucket list.
When he spoke to a journalist at the Singapore Grand Prix, he brought it up again. “It is, for me, the most important continent, to be honest, the most beautiful continent. We’re on all the other continents, but that one, and there should be no reason for it.”
“It is something I’ve been pushing for in the background, and Stefano has been amazing.
“He’s flown to Africa so many times over the last couple of years, speaking to lots and lots of different people, so I hope that he has some news for me soon.”
