Rwanda to host Formula 1 Grand Prix, sources say

Rwanda will host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, sources in the Rwandan government and close to motor racing's governing body told AFP on Thursday, in what would be the first race on the African continent in decades.

Rwanda and the FIA have not yet formally announced the decision. A Rwandan government source said the country's bid had been greenlit and an agreement had been reached.

A source close to the FIA said an official announcement would be made in Kigali next week, with Qatar supporting the project.

Rwanda has pursued a Grand Prix for years as part of a wider effort to use major sports events and partnerships to attract attention, tourism and investment. President Paul Kagame formally announced the bid when Rwanda hosted an FIA gathering in December 2024.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, has long called for Formula 1 to race in Africa and backed Rwanda's plans in 2024.

Rwanda has spent on football sponsorships with clubs including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, partnered with the NBA as a main hub of its African basketball league and hosted last year's cycling world championships.

Critics have called the strategy “sports-washing”, saying major events distract from allegations of serious human rights abuses and a crackdown on opposition and dissent. Others reject that criticism as Western hypocrisy.

A Rwandan government source said there were concerns the decision may not be fully welcomed at home, where a quarter of the population lives below the poverty line and the economy is struggling.

South Africa has also bid to host a Formula 1 race. Its sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, said Rwanda had worked on its bid longer and deserved it, but said South Africa could still get a race before 2030.