Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced a formal bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix, at the opening of the FIA's General Assembly in Kigali, preceding the Formula One awards ceremony where Max Verstappen was set to receive his fourth consecutive championship trophy.
"I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula One Grand Prix," Kagame said.
Kagame expressed gratitude to Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali and his team for the progress made in discussions, which preceded the F1 awards ceremony of handing over Max Verstappen his fourth consecutive championship trophy.
"I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves. Together we will build something we can all be proud of," the president said.
Reports indicate that the planned circuit, designed by Alexander Wurz's company, will be situated near a new international airport under construction in Bugesera, approximately 40 km from Kigali.
Earlier, several F1 officials and drivers have also voiced support for an African Grand Prix, emphasizing the need to bring Formula One to a continent often overlooked by the sport.
The FIA's General Assembly meeting in Kigali marks its first time in Africa, with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praising Rwanda’s growing influence in motorsport and expressing optimism for the future of motorsport on the continent.