F1 chiefs have raised concerns over hosting a Grand Prix in Rwanda and could opt against handing the country a race during the 2027 season. Last year, Rwanda and South Africa both launched bids to host the first F1 race on the African continent since 1993.
The Democratic Republic of Congo minister of foreign affairs Therese Kayikwamba Wagner has expressed her anxieties about Rwanda hosting a Grand Prix.
Those anxieties come in the wake of Rwandan-backed rebels attacking Congolese government forces.
In a letter addressed to F1 chief Stefano Domenicali, which has been seen by the Independent, Wagner asked: “Does F1 really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda?”
The minster added: “Is this really the best country to represent Africa in global motorsport?”
And she then demanded F1 bosses “end negotiations and rule Rwanda out as a potential host”, before going to on to state her country would “wholeheartedly support” a South African bid.
An F1 spokesperson has since explained: “We have been closely monitoring the developments relating to the DRC and Rwanda and continue to do so.
“We have received requests from multiple locations around the world that wish to host a future Formula 1 race.
“We assess any potential request in detail and any future decisions would be based on the full information and what is in the best interests of our sport and our values.”
South Africa was the last African country to host a Grand Prix, with the Kyalami circuit staging the event in March 1993. Frenchman Alain Prost started the race from pole and went on the cross the chequered flag in first position ahead of Brazilian star Ayrton Senna and British ace Mark Blundell.
South Africa could be handed another Grand Prix in 2027, with a decision over the final season schedule yet to be made.
But in December, Rwanda president Paul Kagame explained as his country hosted the FIA’s general assembly and prize giving: “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 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.”
And FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented: “To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular its growing influence in motorsport.”
