Rwanda President Kagame announces F1 race bid
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Paul Kagame aims to bring Formula 1 back to Africa for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. [Reuters]
Rwanda is officially bidding to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, announced by President Paul Kagame. This comes as the country has been in talks with F1 officials for some months, driven by the sport’s desire to return to Africa. The announcement was made during the FIA’s general assembly and prize-giving event, held in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, where President Kagame chose the occasion to reveal the country’s intention to bring a Formula 1 race to the continent.
In his statement, Kagame expressed his excitement and commitment to the project, saying, “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.” He went on to thank Stefano Domenicali, the president of F1, and the entire team for their positive progress in discussions so far. Kagame emphasized that Rwanda is approaching this opportunity with seriousness and full commitment, signaling the country’s readiness to make this ambitious vision a reality.
If the bid is successful, the race would take place on a newly designed track near the new Bugesera airport, located just outside Kigali. The proposed track is being designed by Alexander Wurz, a former F1 driver and current chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association. Wurz’s design company has been working on the project in collaboration with local authorities, businesses, and other advisers for over a year. The track promises to be fast and challenging, built alongside a lake and utilizing the area’s hilly terrain to create an exciting course for drivers and fans alike.
Wurz is also the designer behind the Qiddiyah circuit in Saudi Arabia, which is set to be completed by 2028, with the first race expected to take place in 2029. His expertise and involvement in these two projects highlight the global ambition to bring new, exciting races to different regions, with a focus on blending cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and thrilling track layouts.
The idea of an African Formula 1 race has been long discussed. F1 had previously looked at bringing back a grand prix in South Africa, at the Kyalami circuit, which last hosted a race in 1993. However, talks fell apart due to issues with local promoters, leaving the potential of an African Grand Prix in doubt. Now, Rwanda’s bid is considered the most viable project to bring Formula 1 racing back to the continent.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who attended the assembly meeting, praised Rwanda’s growing influence in the motorsport world. He expressed his admiration for the country’s achievements, particularly in innovation, sustainability, and road safety, noting that these shared values align closely with those of F1. “To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation,” Ben Sulayem said. “We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”
The potential for Rwanda to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix represents more than just a sporting event; it’s also a reflection of the country’s broader ambitions in terms of infrastructure development, global recognition, and economic growth. Hosting an F1 race would not only bring significant tourism and international exposure to Rwanda but could also encourage investment in the country’s motorsport and entertainment sectors.
For the Formula 1 organization, expanding into Africa is an exciting prospect. The continent has a rapidly growing population, a rising middle class, and a young demographic with an increasing appetite for global sports. Bringing a Grand Prix to Rwanda would tap into this potential market and introduce the excitement of F1 racing to a new, enthusiastic fanbase.
While the Rwanda project is currently the most likely candidate for an African Grand Prix, the deal is still under negotiation, and no official confirmation has been made yet. However, the groundwork laid by F1 officials, the FIA, and the Rwandan government suggests that the bid has strong momentum. As discussions continue and plans for the new track develop, all eyes will be on Rwanda to see if it can secure the opportunity to host one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.
In conclusion, Rwanda’s bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix signals a new chapter in the country’s ambitious growth story and the potential return of F1 racing to Africa. With strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and the expertise of renowned track designers like Alexander Wurz, the country is positioning itself as a serious contender in the global motorsport arena. If successful, the race could become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s sporting legacy, attracting international attention and offering a thrilling experience for F1 fans worldwide.
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