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Rwanda confirms bid to host F1 in Africa
The president of Rwanda has confirmed negotiations are underway with Formula 1 to host a grand prix in the African country in the near future.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has regularly referenced the need to add a race on the African continent to make the sport a truly global championship, as there are already events in Europe, North and South America, Asia and Australasia. This year’s FIA General Assembly is taking place in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, and the country’s president Paul Kagame has now confirmed it is aiming to host an F1 race.
“I’m 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 said during his opening address. “A big thank you to [F1 Group CEO] Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at Formula 1 for the good progress in our discussions so far. I sure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves. Together we will build something we can all be proud of.
“In Rwanda we have made significant investments in sports infrastructure. The BK Arena, where NBA basketball Africa League finals have been held, or the newly renovated Amphora Stadium, and the future Zaria Courts Complex … are a few examples.
“Our philosophy has always been to make the most of our available resources. We understand that sports is not just about buildings or events, but requires an entire ecosystem to cultivate talent and excite fans. This has a real and tangible impact, not only on our economy but also for our people.
“For every hotel, recreation facility or restaurant that gets built, new jobs are created. Rwanda is ready, and we want to welcome even more fans and visitors while aiming for the highest quality standard in everything we do.”
The official acknowledgement of the bid comes ahead of the FIA Prize Giving that will take place later on Friday.
“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 it’s growing influence in motorsport,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said.
“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.”
Chris Medland
While studying Sports Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire, Chris managed to talk his way into working at the British Grand Prix in 2008 and was retained for three years before joining ESPN F1 as Assistant Editor. After three further years at ESPN, a spell as F1 Editor at Crash Media Group was followed by the major task of launching F1i.com’s English-language website and running it as Editor. Present at every race since the start of 2014, he has continued building his freelance portfolio, working with international titles. As well as writing for RACER, his broadcast work includes television appearances on F1 TV and as a presenter and reporter on North America's live radio coverage on SiriusXM.
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