In a message posted on X on Thursday, October 15, the Head of State thanked Ramaphosa for congratulating Rwanda on securing a 10-year agreement to host the race and for offering South Africa’s assistance as preparations move forward.

“Thank you very much, my brother, President Cyril Ramaphosa, for your congratulatory message and the support you have offered. We look forward to working with you and all those who share this vision, to make this Grand Prix truly African in every way possible, and to raise the level of motorsport on this continent,” President Kagame wrote.

His remarks followed a message from Ramaphosa congratulating Rwanda on securing the hosting agreement, which will bring Formula 1 back to Africa for the first time since 1993.

“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency President Paul Kagame, the Government and the people of Rwanda on securing a 10-year hosting agreement for the Formula 1 African Grand Prix,” Ramaphosa wrote.

The South African leader described the agreement as recognition of Rwanda’s capabilities and those of the continent, while expressing his country’s readiness to share its experience in organising major sporting events.

“This agreement is a testament to the recognition of the capabilities of the Rwandan people and the African continent as a whole,” he said, adding that South Africa would be happy to provide any support Rwanda might need.

South Africa hosted the last Formula 1 race on African soil at the Kyalami circuit in 1993. The country has also been pursuing a return to the championship, competing with Rwanda, Morocco and Nigeria to host a race.

"As host of the first Grand Prix on African soil in 1993, and organiser of other major global events, South Africa will be happy to provide any support we may be invited to share," Ramaphosa stated.

Kagame’s response places emphasis on cooperation between African countries, with Rwanda seeking to use the Grand Prix not only to attract international attention but also to strengthen motorsport across the continent.

The 10-year agreement announced on October 13 will see the championship return to Africa in the early 2030s, once a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, near Kigali, has been completed.

The project forms part of Rwanda’s broader plans to develop sports infrastructure, attract tourism and investment, create jobs and expand opportunities for local businesses.

In announcing the agreement, Kagame said the ambition extended beyond hosting a single race weekend, highlighting the potential for African markets to benefit more directly from the global sports industry.

The planned circuit is expected to meet the FIA’s Grade 1 requirements for Formula 1 racing and form part of a wider development project linked to sports, tourism and commercial activities.

President Kagame has also expressed the hope that the African Grand Prix will encourage more races to be hosted on the continent.