Rwanda has officially confirmed its intention to bring Formula 1 back to Africa for the first time in over three decades.

Talks of this ambitious bid have been gaining momentum, with representatives from the Rwanda Development Board attending this year’s Monaco Grand Prix to engage with the FIA.

The motorsport governing body’s Annual General Assembly and Prize Giving Ceremony, being held in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, this week, further highlights the nation’s commitment to reviving the sport on the continent.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali also held discussions with Rwandan officials in September, signaling serious intentions behind the bid.

Now, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has confirmed that plans for a future Grand Prix are taking shape, adding to the growing anticipation surrounding the project.

"I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 grand prix," said Kagame.

"A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at Formula 1 for the good progress in our discussions so far.

"I assure you we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves.

"Together we will build something we can all be proud of."

The last time F1 raced on African soil was in 1993 at the Kyalami Circuit in South Africa, marking the end of a long absence from the continent.

Over the years, there have been several attempts to bring F1 back to Africa, but none have materialized. Last year, discussions seemed promising for a return to South Africa, only for political issues to prevent the deal from going through.

Now, Rwanda is stepping up with a formal declaration of its plans, positioning Kigali as the potential hub for the continent’s F1 future.