Formula 1 in Rwanda is inching closer to becoming a reality.
Government sources and others close to the International Automobile Federation (FIA) have revealed an agreement to host a round of the world championship after 2030.
A government source told AFP that Rwanda’s bid had been approved.
A source close to the FIA added that the official announcement will be made in the capital, Kigali, next week, though no official confirmation has been issued so far.
If the agreement is finalized, Grand Prix racing will return to Africa for the first time since the South African Grand Prix in 1993, giving the continent a renewed presence on the global sports map.
President Paul Kagame had announced the submission of the hosting bid in December 2024, during a meeting of the FIA.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton of Britain has also backed the Rwandan project, having repeatedly called for an African round to be held.
Rwanda relies on sports to boost tourism and attract investment.
The country has signed sponsorship deals with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, taken part in developing the Basketball Africa League, and hosted the UCI Road World Championships last year.
Meanwhile, South Africa continues its efforts to host a race.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie affirmed that Rwanda’s selection does not rule out his country’s chances, noting the possibility of holding more than one round within the continent, just as Italy hosts two races a year.
The project thus opens the door to a long-awaited African return to the world of speed.
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