DRC challenges Rwanda’s Formula 1 bid, cautions against “blood-stained association”

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has called on Formula 1 to halt discussions with Rwanda over hosting the Grand Prix, warning that the Liberty Media-owned sport risks having its brand “smeared by a blood-stained association.”

The DRC argues that Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group, which has fueled conflict in eastern Congo, makes it an unsuitable host for such a prestigious international event.

Since early 2022, fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group has resulted in thousands of deaths and millions of displaced people.

The DRC, along with the United Nations and some Western nations, accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels with troops and weapons.

Rwanda denies these allegations, asserting that its actions are defensive and aimed at protecting its borders and citizens.

Recall the DRC Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, previously urged football clubs Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain to end their sponsorship deals with Rwanda.

Wagner has escalated the campaign by writing to Formula 1’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, expressing “deep concern” over the sport’s ongoing discussions with Rwanda regarding a potential Grand Prix.

“While I applaud Formula One’s desire to host a grand prix in Africa, I question whether Rwanda would be a choice that best represents our continent and urge you to end negotiations and rule Rwanda out as a potential host,” wrote the minister.

“Does Formula One really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda? Is this really the best country to represent Africa in global Motorsport?” she added.

Although Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner expressed strong support for the idea of hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix on African soil, she firmly opposed Rwanda’s bid to host the event.

“South African soldiers on peacekeeping duties in my country have been killed by the very regime you seek to do business with,” she added.

“For the sake of those who have given their lives in the name of peace, make the right choice and at least make their sacrifice worth something.”

Africa, despite its growing fan base, remains the only continent without a Formula 1 race, forcing enthusiasts to travel to the Middle East, which hosts four F1 events annually, to experience the thrill of a live race.

There is currently a heated race to bring Formula 1 to Africa, with Rwanda and South Africa competing for the hosting rights, both aiming to realize their ambition by 2027.

Rwanda formally launched its bid last year, with President Paul Kagame announcing the country’s intentions during the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) General Assembly held in Kigali in December.

Reuters reports that Formula 1 has responded to the ongoing debate, stating that it is closely monitoring developments regarding Rwanda’s bid to host a Grand Prix.

“We have received requests from multiple locations around the world that wish to host a future Formula One race,” said a spokesperson.

“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.” the report added.