The Democratic Republic of Congo has called on Formula 1 to withdraw its interest in Rwanda hosting a grand prix, citing ongoing conflict in the region. DRC’s Foreign Affairs Minister emphasized the war’s impact on citizens and questioned the ethics of F1 associating with Rwanda. She proposed South Africa as a preferable alternative, urging F1 to consider the implications of their decisions carefully.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has urged Formula 1 (F1) to cease discussions with Rwanda regarding a potential grand prix event due to ongoing regional conflicts. DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, sent a letter to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, voicing her concerns about the implications of hosting a race in Rwanda amid ongoing violence in the DRC.
The conflict in the DRC’s eastern region escalated in 2022 with the emergence of the March 23 Movement (23M) rebel group, allegedly supported by Rwandan forces. The ongoing violence has led to the displacement of over 700,000 Congolese residents, prompting the DRC to sever diplomatic ties with Rwanda. Wagner requested that F1 reconsider its position, stating, “Rwanda is currently occupying a large part of the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo in collaboration with its proxy the M23, displacing over 700,000 Congolese citizens.”
Wagner highlighted additional concerns regarding Rwanda’s involvement in illicit mineral mining. She questioned whether F1 would want to associate its brand with a country experiencing such severe conflict, stressing, “Does Formula 1 really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda?”
Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, expressed intentions to host a grand prix in Kigali at a new airport track during the FIA Prize Gala last December. However, Wagner indicated that F1 has several alternatives, suggesting South Africa as a potential host. She noted, “You have a choice. There are alternatives. I understand that a South African bid is on the table to host the grand prix, which the DRC would wholeheartedly support.”
Wagner also referenced the sacrifices made by South African peacekeepers in the DRC, urging F1 to make a decision aligned with their memory. F1 officials stated they are aware of the situation and are closely monitoring developments in the region. According to an F1 spokesperson, decisions about race locations will be made based on thorough assessments, considering the best interests of the series and its values.
DRC’s appeal to Formula 1 reflects the complexities of regional politics and the sensitivities surrounding potential race locations. The ongoing conflict with Rwanda, along with concerns over human rights and mining practices, raises ethical questions about associating F1 with these nations. Wagner’s advocacy for South Africa emphasizes the need for F1 to consider alternatives that might better represent the continent amidst these challenges.
Original Source: www.the-race.com
