DR Congo condemns F1 decision to race in Rwanda

Dubai - The foreign minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed strong disapproval of Formula 1's decision to race in Rwanda, warning that it could be used to "polish the image of an authoritarian leader." Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced plans for the African Grand Prix alongside F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The event is set to take place in Bugesera, near Kigali, in the early 2030s.

DRC foreign minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner had previously warned F1 executives in February 2025 that allowing Rwanda to host the race would be "morally indefensible." She argued that giving the Rwandan leader a platform would enhance the image of an authoritarian who has contributed to conflict in the DRC. Wagner expressed support for South Africa's rival bid to bring Formula 1 back to Africa.

The situation presents F1 with an opportunity to showcase its values, she added, calling for assurances that the race's funding would not come from conflict-linked minerals or the exploitation of Congolese resources. The DRC has previously criticized Rwanda's use of sport as a way to improve its international image, including high-profile sponsorship deals with European football clubs.

In March, the United States imposed sanctions on Rwanda's military and senior officers over support for M23 rebels in eastern DRC, a claim Rwanda rejects as one-sided. FIA president Ben Sulayem hailed the return of Formula 1 to Africa as a "historic moment."