Rwanda to Host Africa’s First Formula One Grand Prix Since 1993
Rwanda will host Africa’s first Formula One Grand Prix since 1993 under a 10-year agreement announced by the racing series on Tuesday. The event is expected to begin in the early 2030s, marking Formula One’s return to the continent after a gap of roughly four decades.
The East African country has pursued a place on the Formula One calendar for years. The deal extends Rwanda’s broader strategy of using major international sports—including football and basketball—to raise its global profile, attract investment and strengthen its image abroad.
The agreement is also drawing scrutiny over Rwanda’s human rights record. Amnesty International accused Formula One of awarding the country a “sportswashing prize,” arguing that the prestige of a Grand Prix could be used to improve Rwanda’s reputation without addressing those concerns. The announcement therefore combines a significant expansion of Formula One’s geographic reach with renewed debate over the political and ethical implications of selecting hosts for major sporting events.
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