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F1 announces return to Africa with 10-year deal for Rwanda Grand Prix

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 20, 2026, 4:24 PM

Last updated Oct 20, 2026

F1 announces return to Africa with 10-year deal for Rwanda Grand Prix

Summary

Formula 1 will reintroduce racing in Africa as Rwanda hosts its first Grand Prix in over three decades, starting in the early 2030s. President Paul Kagame confirmed the 10-year deal, which aims to enhance the continent's sports and attract investment. Analysts suggest this initiative could be pivotal, considering Africa's underrepresentation in global sports. Rwanda prevailed over South Africa and other nations to secure the event, signaling a growing interest in major sporting events on the continent. Rwanda's commitment to sports aims to bolster infrastructure and partnerships, addressing historical economic disparities in sports hosting.

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Status Watch

•F1 racing returns to Africa with a Grand Prix in Rwanda.
•Deal announced by President Paul Kagame lasts 10 years.
•Rwanda competed against South Africa for the hosting rights.
•Initiative aims to develop sports infrastructure across Africa.
•F1 identifies Africa as a market with over 100 million fans.

Latest Updates

4:24 PMYahoo Sports — What F1’s return to Africa means for a continent long overlooked by global sports

What they're saying

"
Though human rights groups call it sportswashing, analysts say Formula 1’s choice of Rwanda to host its first African race since the 1990s can become a watershed moment for the continent’s sports industry — if it can deliver lasting development.Rwanda President Paul Kagame last week announced the 10-year deal for an African Grand Prix from the early 2030s, a milestone he said that could serve as a catalyst for sports across Africa.
— Yahoo Sportsby CIARÁN FAHEY

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