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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Kieran Jackson

What we know as F1 confirms historic return to Africa

  • Formula 1 has announced a landmark 10-year agreement to host an African Grand Prix in Rwanda , marking the sport's return to the continent for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.
  • The race will take place on a brand-new circuit designed by former F1 driver Alex Wurz in Bugesera, located 40 miles south of Kigali , with a target completion date set for the early 2030s.
  • F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali hailed the deal as a landmark moment that ensures the championship will race across every inhabited continent, while Rwandan President Paul Kagame emphasised the long-term economic, tourism, and employment benefits.
  • Despite the historic nature of the deal, the event is expected to draw scrutiny regarding Rwanda's human rights record and potential accusations of sportswashing, with the tourism brand Visit Rwanda set to sponsor the grand prix.
  • Rwanda secured the long-term deal ahead of competing interest from other African nations, including South Africa , Morocco , and Nigeria , although South Africa remains hopeful of hosting a race in the future.

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