Rwanda, often called ‘the land of a thousand hills’, plans to embrace its unique terrain.
A track, designed by former Benetton driver Alexander Wurz, is set to be constructed approximately 25km from the capital Kigali and promises to deliver a fast, flowing layout that winds through forests and around a picturesque lake.
It includes dramatic elevation changes and sharp corners which were described by Verstappen as “amazing” when the Red Bull Racing man visited Rwanda for the FIA Awards last month, while Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc is excited by the potential for overtaking opportunities.
But building a F1 circuit is no small feat, given it must meet stringent FIA safety standards and accommodate associated infrastructure including paddocks and media facilities.
Rwanda’s bid is part of a larger strategy to position the country as a global sports hub.
“It’s about Rwanda’s growth, people and place on the world stage,” said Christian Gakwaya, president of the Rwanda Automobile Club, the organisation in charge of motorsport activities in the country.
Some estimates suggest the project could cost Rwanda over $270m (£218m), yet the investment would help boost a tourism sector which generated over $620m (£501m) in 2023, according to the Rwanda Development Board.
“From job creation to infrastructure upgrades, these events touch lives across the country,” Rwanda’s chief tourism officer Irene Murerwa explained.
“The benefits trickle down to every Rwandan. Hosting F1 would be another step in our journey to becoming a world-class destination.”
A commitment to sustainability is another cornerstone of the bid, with Gakwaya pledging to “uphold the highest environmental standards”.
The country’s ban on single-use plastics and focus on harnessing renewable energy aligns with F1’s ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2030.
