Formula 1 faces sportswashing criticism over Rwandan Grand Prix deal

Formula 1 has faced criticism after agreeing to host races in Rwanda starting in the early 2030s. DW and Al Jazeera report that the deal marks the sport's first return to the African continent since 1993. The event will take place at a new racetrack planned for Bugesera, near the Kigali International Airport. [1][2]

Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced the race alongside F1 Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Al Jazeera reported. Neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo condemned the move on Thursday. Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, the foreign minister of DR Congo, stated that Formula 1 would polish the image of an authoritarian leader if the event moves forward. [2]

Human rights organisation Amnesty International has accused Formula 1 of handing Rwanda a sportswashing prize, according to Scuderia Ferrari Fans. DW added that while critics raise concerns over sportswashing, supporters hope the race will leave a positive legacy across wider African society. [1][7]

The track venue in Bugesera is located near Kigali International Airport, which is 60 percent owned by Qatar Airways, DW reported. Qatar Airways is also a primary sponsor of Formula 1. Meanwhile, South Africa retains interest in hosting a future Formula 1 race despite Rwanda securing the 10-year deal, according to GPblog. [1][4]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, Formula 1 signed a ten-year contract to hold the African Grand Prix in Rwanda. The track in Bugesera, southeast of Kigali, will host the events beginning in the early 2030s. [13]