The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has called on Formula One (F1) to halt discussions with Rwanda over hosting a race, warning that the sport risks tarnishing its reputation by associating with a nation accused of fueling conflict in eastern Congo.
Fighting between the Congolese army and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has killed thousands and displaced over a million people since early 2022. In response, DRC’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, has also urged football giants Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain to sever sponsorship ties with Rwanda.
In a letter addressed to Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali, Wagner expressed “deep concern” over the sport’s negotiations with Rwanda.
“While I applaud Formula One’s desire to bring a Grand Prix to Africa, I question whether Rwanda is the right choice to represent our continent,” she wrote. “Does Formula One really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda?”
Rwanda has faced accusations from the United Nations, the DRC, and several Western nations of supporting the M23 rebels with troops and weapons—allegations Kigali denies, claiming its military presence is defensive and meant to protect its borders.
Formula One confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely.
“We have received requests from multiple locations worldwide that wish to host a future Formula One race,” a spokesperson stated. “We assess any potential request in detail, and any future decisions would be based on full information and what is in the best interests of our sport and our values.”
Rwandan President Paul Kagame had previously announced in December 2023, ahead of an F1 prize-giving gala in Kigali, that Rwanda was interested in hosting a race. Formula One has not held a race in Africa since 1993 at Kyalami, South Africa, and a return to the continent has been a long-term goal.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has reportedly been involved in efforts to secure a race in Africa, engaging with both Rwandan and South African stakeholders.
Wagner emphasized her full support for a South African bid instead.
“South African soldiers on peacekeeping missions in my country have been killed by the very regime you seek to do business with,” she wrote. “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.”
South African troops are currently deployed in the DRC as part of U.N. and regional peacekeeping efforts. At least 13 South African soldiers had died in clashes with rebels by the end of January.
