Rwanda International Circuit
Made in Illustrator and 3D for Assetto Corsa
Hotlap video: https://youtu.be/difP78Z0ffA
Racedepartment download link: https://www.overtake.gg/downloads/rwanda-international-circuit.84101/
Rwanda seriously aims to bring Formula 1 to the African continent in 2029. The actual circuit will be located close to the new Bugesera Airport, an hour away from the capital of Kigali. Alexander Wurz, current GPDA director and former F1 driver, has been tasked to design this circuit.
My design, the Rwanda International Circuit, is a Grade 1 permanent Formula 1 track proposal, located close to the proposed site. It gives Rwanda, and Africa a modern facility to use and promote motorsport within the region. It is designed according to the existing surroundings and elevation.
This circuit may therefore serve as a preview or example of how a permanent F1 track in Rwanda could look like.
The circuit
Rwanda being the country of a thousand hills, this circuit uses elevation to its advantage. With an elevation difference of 50m over the course of the clockwise 5.302km circuit, viewpoints to the surrounding lakes and hills are plentiful for the ±105.000 spectators.
Another element at play is the altitude of almost 1400m. On the 1.35km long main straight, extreme top speeds of ±350km/h can be reached as there is a less air resistance, thus less drag.
The main concept of the track layout is being able to race closely throughout the whole lap. It means having consecutive overtaking zones, strong braking zones, wide track width, and being able to use different racing lines. The whole track has been designed according to these principles.
The Rwanda Sling T1-3 and the Arena T4-6 demonstrate these principles the most. The battle then continues to the Land of a Thousand Hills T7-12, where clever car placement is key. The Bugesera Hairpin T15 is the most challenging corner on the track, as it requires braking while turning, and a strong exit towards the finish line.
Inspiration was taken from Silverstone, Interlagos, Imola, and previous track designs of mine. From the first sketch to the final submission took 8 months. But this is my best and most complete design yet. Let me know your thoughts and feedback!