Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has announced a formal bid to bring Formula One racing back to Africa, revealing plans for a new circuit near Kigali during the FIA’s general assembly on Friday. The country aims to end F1’s 30-year absence from the continent since the last South African Grand Prix.

“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa, by hosting a Formula 1 grand prix,” Kagame said, confirming ongoing discussions with F1 president Stefano Domenicali.

The proposed permanent track, designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, will be constructed near the Bugesera airport, 40km south of Kigali. The airport, a $2 billion development, is scheduled for completion in 2026.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has been working behind the scenes with both Rwanda and South Africa, strongly supports the initiative. “Rwanda is one of my favourite places I’ve been to,” Hamilton said. “I’ve been doing a lot of work in the background on it.”

Africa remains the only inhabited continent without an F1 race. Previous talks to revive the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami fell through, making Rwanda the frontrunner for F1’s African return.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlighted Rwanda’s growing influence in motorsport during the assembly. “We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety,” he said.

Hamilton emphasized the broader impact of bringing F1 to Africa: “The rest of the world just takes from Africa. Having a grand prix there will really be able to highlight just how great the place is and bring in tourism.”

President Kagame assured stakeholders of Rwanda’s commitment: “We are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.”