President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame hosted senior motorsport officials, including FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali, at a dinner following the announcement that Rwanda will host the African Grand Prix from 2030.
The dinner took place on October 13, 2026, following the official announcement that Rwanda had been selected to host the Formula 1 race in Africa.
In a post on X, the Office of the President, Village Urugwiro, said the gathering brought together private-sector leaders and other partners in motorsport.
Hosting the race is part of Rwanda’s efforts to strengthen its international profile through sport, tourism and investment.
The African Grand Prix is expected to join Formula 1’s calendar, which currently features 23 races held in different parts of the world. Rwanda would become the only African country on the calendar to host the competition.
Preparations include plans to build a dedicated motor racing circuit in Bugesera District, near the new Kigali International Airport. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2030.
The circuit will be built to FIA Grade 1 standards, the highest classification required for venues hosting Formula 1 races.
Rwanda secured the hosting opportunity after competing against other countries that submitted bids, including South Africa.
The Formula 1 African Grand Prix will be supported by the Visit Rwanda tourism brand as part of efforts to promote the country and attract more tourists and investors.
However, the exact date of the first race and a detailed schedule for the circuit’s construction have yet to be announced.
