Before the Formula 1 Engines Roar, Rwanda Has a Story to Tell

From rebuilding a nation to bringing Formula 1 back to Africa after more than three decades, Rwanda's latest milestone is about more than motorsport.
For decades, Africa has produced world-class sporting talent, attracted millions of fans and contributed significantly to the global sports economy. Yet much of the economic value has been realized elsewhere.
President Paul Kagame believes it is time to change that equation.
“For decades, African athletes have been a pillar of the global sports economy, adding significant commercial value to top leagues, with the continent receiving almost nothing in return.”

His remarks come as Rwanda was announced as the host of the Formula 1 African Grand Prix under a landmark 10-year agreement, bringing the championship back to Africa for the first time since 1993.

“This is not just about building venues. It's about creating a sustainable economic model where different revenue streams across hospitality, tourism, entertainment are generated and anchored into local communities,” President Kagame emphasized.

For Rwanda, the agreement represents another milestone in a remarkable journey of rebuilding and transformation since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
As Rwanda's Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, observed: “Rwanda hosting Formula 1 is no overnight success. It reflects decades of rebuilding, brick by brick, since 1994.”

Why Rwanda?

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali revealed that other African countries had also been considered. But Rwanda's determination, leadership and long-term vision made the difference.
“For many years, we have spoken about our desire to return, but always said we would return in the right way, with the right vision and the right partner. That partner is Rwanda.”

He described Rwanda as “one of the world's great success stories,” recognizing its resilience, ambition and ability to overcome the challenges of its past.
“President Kagame has not simply managed what is possible for Rwanda. He has worked tirelessly to help to shape it.”

For Domenicali, the agreement is only the beginning.
“We are talking about ten years, but ten years is just the beginning, because before arriving at twenty, we need to pass through ten.”

A journey built over years

Rwanda's growing presence in international sports did not begin with Formula 1. The country has hosted major gatherings including the FIFA Congress, Basketball Africa League, UCI Road World Championships and FIA General Assemblies and Awards, building experience and international partnerships along the way.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, recalled how the FIA General Assembly and Awards in Kigali helped open the door to this historic agreement.

“That was, I believe, an opening for this big and pinnacle sport.”
“Rwanda is a country that has demonstrated remarkable vision, resilience and also determination under the leadership of President Paul Kagame,” he remarked. “It's a dream come true. I am a big believer in Africa.”

Beyond the finish line

With more than 100 million Formula 1 fans across Africa, the Grand Prix promises to bring the sport closer to a new generation while creating opportunities beyond the racetrack.
“This is not simply about hosting a Grand Prix. This is about creating legacy and inspiration, a legacy of tourism and investment, a legacy of skills, education and opportunity,” Domenicali explained.

Ben Sulayem equally emphasized that Formula 1's return to Africa must be sustainable, supported by education, knowledge sharing and long-term investment.

For President Kagame, the broader ambition is clear:
“Sports is a great equalizer, but we have to be intentional about delivering this promise.”

As Rwanda prepares to welcome the world's premier motorsport championship in the early 2030s, Domenicali offered a fitting reflection:

“Many times from now, people will look back on this day and say that this was the moment Formula 1 came home to Africa.”

The engines have yet to roar in Rwanda. But the journey to the starting grid began decades ago, with a nation determined to rebuild, dream bigger and create new possibilities for its people.

As Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana put it, “Rwanda hosting Formula 1 symbolizes how far we have come and where we aspire to go. It is a testament to a nation rising with safety, confidence, and ambition.”

Watch the ceremony here.