For months, the Rwanda GP was on the verge of an agreement with F1, yet it now seems almost forgotten. Here’s why F1 may be reconsidering its African dream
F1 has long been negotiating with various organizers and governments worldwide to expand its reach. While some purists argue that the sport is losing its DNA by moving away from Europe, many see this global expansion as a huge opportunity to bring the championship to new territories.
F1 has been in talks with multiple venues, with governments eager to host a Grand Prix due to the substantial economic benefits (as seen with the record numbers from the 2024 Italian GP). Among the latest discussions, circuits such as Hockenheim, Portimão, Madrid, and a potential return to Sepang have been on the table, alongside South Africa, Thailand, and Rwanda.
From End-of-Year Celebration to Political Crisis: Rwanda’s Shifting Landscape
The Rwanda GP was incredibly close to being finalized, especially last December, when F1, the teams, and the FIA hosted their annual end-of-season gala in Kigali—the first-ever in Africa. This event further fueled speculation that a new circuit would be built in the Rwandan capital, marking the second-ever African GP after South Africa.
However, recent months have brought significant challenges, particularly at a governmental level. Just as the deal seemed imminent, Rwanda has been facing a serious crisis. Beyond widespread poverty, the country is also entangled in an escalating conflict with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
According to Motorsport.com, the Congolese government formally addressed Stefano Domenicali, explicitly questioning the ethics of hosting an F1 race in Rwanda:
“Does Formula 1 really want its brand associated with Rwanda’s bloody conflicts? Is this truly the best country to represent Africa in global motorsport?“
This refers to Rwanda’s occupation of a large Congolese territory, a point of contention in the ongoing dispute between the two nations. With political tensions rising and increasing international pressure, the Rwanda GP deal—once seen as a mere formality—now appears to be at serious risk. The silence from both sides in recent months only adds to the uncertainty.
Photos: F1, Scuderia Ferrari HP
