Country warns F1 as the African Grand Prix will happen over people's bloodshed

Formula 1 race in Africa is a long-standing dream for the African people as the last official race in Africa was held in 1993 in South Africa’s Kylami circuit. After that, the African continent hadn't seen any races in three decades and even World champion Lewis Hamilton was more concerned about that.

The 7-time world champion feels F1 races are happening at many new places and still Africa is ignored with no Grand Prix. Lewis even held talks with countries like Rwanda and South Africa regarding the African Grand Prix and even promised to bring resources and interests. South Africa is the one country that already has an international race circuit for hosting F1 races. Rwanda was also showing more interest and their president even hosted the FIA Awards 2024. They are planning to host the African Grand Prix in their capital Kigali.

African Grand Prix on Bloodshed

One of the neighbouring countries of Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo has urged the FIA and F1, that hosting the race in Kigali will be like racing over people's bloodshed. The DRC and Rwanda have a long-standing conflict in the region. There was a militant group named M23 Movement fighting with the DRC military in the borders that left 2900 people dead since 2022. The DRC blames Rwanda’s army for supporting the military group that occupies a large part of Congo's eastern side. tAccording to UN report the conflict has displaced 7,00,000 Congo citizens from their homes. 

DRC foreign minister said “While I applaud Formula 1’s desire to host a grand prix in Africa, I question whether Rwanda would be a choice that best represents our continent and urge you to end negotiations and rule Rwanda out as a potential host.” He added “Does Formula 1 really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda? Is this really the best country to represent Africa in global motorsport?”

Lewis Hamilton has now joined Ferrari and is now 40 years of age. He desires to race in Africa before he retires from Formula 1. But is the African continent ready to welcome Formula 1 into their continent keeping aside all their issues and conflicts? That's a big question to be answered.

Also Read: Formula 1 'GOAT' Praised for his Outstanding Support in Promoting the African GP