Rwanda has reportedly entered into a 10-year deal with F1 to host the race, which will be the first time the championship has returned to Africa since 1993.
The race will be held on an engineered circuit at Bugesera, around 25 miles south of Kigali and near the New Bugesera International Airport.
The former F1 driver will work with Tilke and development specialist DAR on the circuit. The course will be formed around the terrain of Rwanda, using the height changes of the land to provide a challenging driving experience.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame said it would help generate tourism, employment and boost the growth of motorsport across Africa.
Meanwhile, the deal was also welcomed by F1 president Stefano Domenicali, who described it as “a historic deal for the championship as we look to grow its footprint in the continent.”
But the deal could also come under scrutiny from human rights organisations because of sportswashing. Rwanda also found itself at the centre of sportswashing allegations, having agreed sponsorship deals with Premier League clubs Arsenal and Aston Villa.
The date of the race and its position in the calendar have not been confirmed yet. Formula 1 wants to bring the season to 24 races, so the scheduling will have to be considered.
This deal is a significant step towards getting African F1 back on the calendar.
