Rwanda President Kagame announces F1 race bid
Rwanda is bidding to host a Formula 1 grand prix, the country's President Paul Kagame says.
F1 is keen to hold a race in Africa and talks with Rwanda have been known about for some months.
The FIA, F1's governing body, is hosting its general assembly and prize giving in the Rwandan capital Kigali, and Kagame chose its opening to put his official seal on the grand prix project.
Kagame said: "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.
"A big thank you to [F1 president] Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at F1 for the good progress in our discussions so far.
"I assure you we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves."
If a deal can be agreed, the race would be held on a new track planned close to the new Bugesera airport, external outside Kigali.
The track designer is Alexander Wurz, a former F1 driver and the chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association.
Wurz's company has been working on the track with local advisers, companies and authorities for more than a year. The circuit, which is fast and flowing, is being built alongside a lake and makes use of the hilly topography of the area.
Wurz is also designing the new Qiddiyah track in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to finished in 2028 and host a grand prix in 2029.
Source: BBC