Source: Official Team Post via X
Rwanda's African Grand Prix: A Calm Response to Critics
Rwanda President Paul Kagame addresses critics following the announcement of the African Grand Prix, urging them to await the event's unveiling. The Grand Prix, set for the early 2030s, marks F1's return to Africa after nearly three decades.
Rwanda is set to host a Formula One race in the early 2030s, as part of a newly announced 10-year deal. This move marks F1's return to the African continent for the first time since 1993. Unlike recent additions featuring street circuits, Rwanda's track will be a purpose-built circuit that harmonizes with the natural landscape, promising nearly 200 meters of elevation changes.
The announcement, however, was met with some skepticism on social media. In response, Rwanda's President Paul Kagame offered a calm retort to the critics, suggesting they 'take a deep breath' and wait to see the developments. Kagame emphasized that Rwanda is on a journey of progress and that F1 is a component of a larger vision for the country and the continent. He noted that while Rwanda is a small nation, the ambition encompasses a broader African context, inviting other African countries to participate in this venture.
Rwanda is no newcomer to hosting high-profile sporting events, having welcomed the NBA Africa League and the FIA's General Assembly in Kigali. President Kagame highlighted the anticipation surrounding the Grand Prix and extended an open invitation to skeptics to be part of the event. He pointed out that the endeavor involves significant private sector investment, with various investors already showing interest.
Ultimately, Kagame sees the Grand Prix as an opportunity for Rwanda and Africa to feature prominently on the global sporting stage, expressing excitement about what is to come. "It's Rwandan, it's African, and it's a big deal that we are very happy to be associated with," he concluded.