A 10-year agreement has been signed to facilitate the return of the Formula 1 World Championship to the African continent. The agreement was announced on October 13, 2026. The African Grand Prix, to be held with the support of Visit Rwanda, is expected to join the championship calendar in the early 2030s. The last Formula 1 race on the African continent took place in 1993.

Organizers and experts emphasize that the event is significant not only for sport. An international competition of this scale would provide an opportunity to showcase Africa’s infrastructure, tourism potential, cultural diversity and growing economic strength to the global community.

Such a major sporting event could help increase the number of international visitors, create new jobs, support local businesses and attract investment in transport, hospitality and other sectors.

Formula 1 management has previously expressed its desire on several occasions to stage races on the African continent. The agreement announced now is the result of several years of work aimed at establishing the necessary conditions and partnerships to host a world-class Grand Prix successfully over the long term.

According to Gautam Karwana, editor-in-chief of the World Media Organization, hosting a Formula 1 race in Africa would help strengthen the continent’s position in the global sports and entertainment industries. Africa’s young population, diverse markets, rich cultural heritage and expanding economic opportunities offer significant potential for attracting international partners and developing ties with other regions of the world.

Africa’s growing role in international sport reflects the continent’s increasing importance in the global economy and its potential to participate more actively in worldwide development.