Formula 1 officials are set to hold discussions with Rwandan representatives next month as the country progresses with its bid to host a grand prix, according to Motorsport.com.
As F1 looks to expand its global calendar, hosting a race in Africa has become a key objective.
While several African nations have shown interest in hosting F1 races, Rwanda’s plans are reportedly advanced enough to warrant serious talks.
In an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed that a meeting with Rwandan officials is scheduled for the end of September to discuss the project further. Domenicali noted, “They are serious. They have presented a good plan, and we have a meeting with them at the end of September. It will be on a permanent track.”
Rwanda’s interest in motor racing has been growing, with representatives from the Rwanda Development Board attending the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this year to meet with the FIA. Additionally, Rwanda will host the FIA Annual General Assembly and Prize Giving Ceremony in its capital, Kigali, in December.
With F1 already achieving its expansion goals in the United States, hosting races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas, the focus is now shifting to other regions, including Africa.
Africa has not hosted an F1 race since the 1993 South African Grand Prix, but Domenicali emphasized that F1 is carefully evaluating the possibilities.
“We want to go to Africa, but we need to have the right investment and strategic plan,” Domenicali said. “We need to ensure that the country and region are ready to welcome F1, considering their other priorities.”
Domenicali added that F1 is now in a position to choose the best possible locations for its calendar, thanks to increased global interest. “With 24 races, we have a stable number, and we can fine-tune the ones we are discussing to shape the future of F1 in the coming years.”
In addition to Rwanda, Thailand is another potential new addition to the F1 calendar. The Thai government is pushing for a grand prix, and Domenicali plans to visit the country after this year’s Singapore Grand Prix to assess the project, which may now involve different options beyond the originally planned street race in Bangkok.