F1 and Rwanda
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
It has been announced that Rwanda has signed a 10-year contract with F1 to host races, beginning in the early 2030s.
The races, which will be known as the African Grand Prix, will be held on a new, purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, which is 25 miles south of the capital Kigali and next to the city's new international airport. It will be the first F1 race in Africa since 1993.
F1 stated that the project is the result of "years of collaboration to ensure the right foundations, with the best partner, are in place to deliver a successful, sustainable and world-class grand prix for generations to come".
The circuit has been designed by the former F1 driver Alex Wurz "to work in harmony with the natural landscape, using the area's elevation changes to create a unique and challenging racing experience while delivering exceptional viewing opportunities for fans".
F1 hopes that the sport will expand its profile in Africa, which, to date, is a relatively unexplored market compared to Europe, Asia and the Americas.
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