President Paul Kagame has officially announced Rwanda’s bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix, marking a significant step in the country’s ambition to establish itself as a global sports and tourism hub.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix. A big thank you to [F1 President] Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at F1 for the good progress in our discussions so far,” Kagame stated.
A High-Altitude Track with Unique Challenges
Rwanda has already begun investing in the construction of an F1-standard racetrack, set to be designed by former Benetton driver Alexander Wurz. The proposed circuit, located 25km from Kigali, will incorporate the country’s natural topography, featuring steep elevation changes and challenging turns—an aspect that three-time world champion Max Verstappen described as “amazing” when he visited Rwanda for the FIA Awards last month.
According to estimates, the project could cost around $270 million (£218 million). Despite the high price tag, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) justifies the investment, pointing to potential economic benefits, job creation, and tourism expansion.
“These events touch lives across the country, from job creation to infrastructure upgrades,” said Irene Murerwa, Rwanda’s Chief Tourism Officer. “Hosting F1 would be another step in our journey to becoming a world-class destination.”
Rwanda’s Growing Presence in Global Sports
The bid for an F1 Grand Prix aligns with Rwanda’s broader strategy to position itself as a leading sports destination. The country has already hosted multiple seasons of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and continues its high-profile sponsorship of Arsenal Football Club through the Visit Rwanda campaign.
Christian Gakwaya, President of the Rwanda Automobile Club, emphasized the national significance of the F1 bid: “It’s about Rwanda’s growth, people, and place on the world stage.”
Criticism and Concerns Over Sportswashing
Despite Rwanda’s push for international recognition in sports, geopolitical tensions and human rights concerns have led to accusations of sportswashing—using sports to deflect criticism.
Recent clashes between M23 rebels and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) forces have intensified regional instability, with the DRC accusing Rwanda of backing the rebels. On Sunday, M23 fighters claimed to have captured Goma, escalating the crisis further.
Additionally, human rights organizations have criticized Kagame’s government, with Human Rights Watch’s Central Africa Director, Lewis Mudge, accusing Rwanda of suppressing freedom of expression and political autonomy.
“Rwanda has major flaws with due process, violating both its own laws and international standards,” Mudge stated.
FIA President Defends Rwanda’s F1 Bid
Despite the controversy, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Ben Sulayem dismissed claims of sportswashing, defending Rwanda’s right to host global sporting events.
“When people don’t get what they want, they always blame it on sportswashing. I honestly don’t care about what they say. I believe that what we are doing is right. We have a general assembly, and they approve everything,” Sulayem asserted.
The Future of Rwanda’s F1 Dream
While Rwanda’s Formula One aspirations could bring substantial economic and tourism benefits, its bid remains under international scrutiny. As discussions progress, the global motorsport community will closely watch whether geopolitical concerns overshadow Rwanda’s ambition to become Africa’s next motorsport hub.
