DR Congo Urges Formula 1 to Drop Rwanda Grand Prix Bid

Citing Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebels and ongoing conflict, DR Congo warns F1 of reputational risks in hosting a race there.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has called on Formula 1 to cease discussions with Rwanda over hosting a Grand Prix, citing concerns over Rwanda's alleged involvement in the M23 rebel conflict.
The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels with troops and weapons, a claim echoed by the United Nations, with recent fighting in eastern Congo displacing over one million people since 2022.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced plans in December to bid for an F1 race, proposing the construction of a new racetrack near Kigali's Bugesera airport.
DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner argued that associating with Rwanda could damage F1's reputation and suggested South Africa as a more suitable host for a race in Africa.
Formula 1 stated it is monitoring the situation and will base decisions on full information and alignment with the sport's values, while no final decision on Rwanda's bid has been made.