Rwanda’s Grand Prix vision: Paul Kagame confirms Formula 1 bid
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
Kigali, Rwanda - Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has officially confirmed that his country is in the running to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the near future. Kagame expressed optimism regarding the progression of talks with Formula 1, signalling a major step towards bringing the prestigious motor racing event to the African continent.
"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," Kagame announced ahead of this year’s FIA prize-giving ceremony, set to be held in Kigali, Rwanda's capital. He extended his gratitude to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and his team for the productive discussions so far. "I assure you we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves. Together we will build something that we can all be proud of," Kagame added.
Rwanda's ambitious plan revolves around the construction of a permanent circuit near the new Bugesera airport, located approximately 40 kilometers south of Kigali. While the discussions are promising, the inclusion of the Rwandan Grand Prix in the official F1 calendar has not yet been finalized.
Domenicali communicated the seriousness of Rwanda's bid in an interview with Autosport in August, underlining the potential of Rwanda becoming a landmark destination for F1 in Africa.
Kagame also emphasized the importance of diversifying the geographical presence of international sporting events. "It is so important for countries in every region and every income level to have a fair shot at hosting international sporting events. Sometimes when a nontraditional host country is announced, it is as if we did something wrong. If you judge by especially the media reaction, these attitudes have to be left in the past and the role of sports governing bodies is absolutely central," he asserted.
In conjunction with the FIA's annual general assembly, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with Rwanda's Minister of Sport, Richard Nyirishema. Ben Sulayem applauded Rwanda's growing prominence in the world of motorsport. "To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA's calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular its growing influence in motorsport. We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright," he said.
Max Verstappen, the 2023 F1 Drivers' Champion, is set to receive his trophy during the ceremony in Kigali. Additionally, Verstappen will engage with a "grassroots development programme" organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club, fulfilling a penalty assigned for swearing during a news conference at the Singapore Grand Prix.
As Rwanda gears up for what could be a historic addition to the Formula 1 calendar, the spotlight will remain on Kigali, fostering anticipation for what promises to be a significant milestone in African motorsport history.
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