The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has criticised Formula 1’s decision to bring the African Grand Prix to Rwanda, citing concerns over the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner described the decision as unacceptable and warned that the event could benefit Rwanda’s international image.
According to Africanews and the Associated Press, the criticism followed Rwanda’s announcement that it would host a Formula 1 race in the early 2030s.
Rwanda announces plans for Formula 1 race
Rwandan President Paul Kagame joined Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem on Tuesday, October 13, to announce the plans.
The race will take place at a new circuit in Bugesera, near the capital, Kigali.
However, construction of the circuit has yet to begin.
The event would mark Formula 1’s return to Africa for the first time since 1993.
Rwanda hopes the race will strengthen its position as a destination for major international sporting events.
DR Congo raises concerns over Rwanda’s role in conflict
The announcement has drawn criticism from DR Congo, which accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 armed group in eastern Congo.
The United States and UN experts have also accused Rwanda of backing the group.
However, Rwanda maintains that its security measures aim to protect the country from armed groups operating near its border.
Congolese Foreign Minister Kayikwamba Wagner said she had previously warned Formula 1 officials against awarding the race to Rwanda.
She argued that the event could improve the international image of President Kagame while conflict continues in eastern Congo.
Furthermore, she said DR Congo supports Formula 1’s return to Africa but opposes Rwanda hosting the event.
Congo calls for guarantees over race funding
Kayikwamba Wagner also raised concerns about the financing of the planned Grand Prix.
She urged Formula 1 to ensure that funding for the event does not come from minerals linked to conflict or the exploitation of Congolese resources.
However, the statement did not establish that the planned race is receiving money from such sources.
DR Congo has previously criticised Rwanda’s international sports sponsorship agreements, including partnerships with major European football clubs.
Meanwhile, Congolese officials have expressed support for South Africa’s efforts to bring Formula 1 back to the continent.
Formula 1 defends Rwanda Grand Prix plans
Formula 1 defended its decision and highlighted the potential benefits of hosting international sporting events.
The organisation said its races can support economic growth, cultural exchange and social development.
It also stressed that its partners must meet the standards and values associated with the sport.
According to Formula 1, the African Grand Prix could have a positive impact on the host country.
The organisation did not announce any change to its plans following DR Congo’s criticism.
Regional tensions continue over M23 conflict
The disagreement comes amid continuing tensions between Rwanda and DR Congo.
In March, the United States imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s military and four senior officers over allegations of support for M23 rebels.
Rwanda rejected the measures, describing them as one-sided and disputing their account of the conflict.
Meanwhile, the planned Formula 1 race has added a new dimension to the dispute between the neighbouring countries.
With the event scheduled for the early 2030s, questions remain over how Formula 1 will address concerns raised by Congolese authorities.