DR Congo demands F1 end talks with Rwanda amid violence

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally requested that Formula 1 cease any negotiations with Rwanda regarding the potential hosting of a Grand Prix. This call was made by the DRC's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, in response to escalating tensions and violence in eastern Congo due to conflict involving the M23 rebel group. This rebel faction, which has been implicated in a series of violent confrontations since 2022, has allegedly received support from Rwanda, a claim that both the Congolese government and the United Nations have corroborated. The situation has deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating around 2,900 people have died in confrontations since the beginning of this year, and over 400,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes due to the ongoing fighting. The violence has particularly intensified around the eastern city of Goma, which was recently overrun by the M23 group. The DRC's letter to Formula 1 emphasizes a desire to avoid any association that could tarnish the brand's reputation, referring to Rwanda as a 'blood-stained' country due to its alleged involvement in the conflict. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner highlighted the sacrifices made by peacekeeping soldiers from South Africa who have been killed as a result of the ongoing tensions, thus urging Formula 1 to reconsider its options for hosting the race in Africa. Meanwhile, Rwanda is actively pursuing plans to build a race track near Bugesera airport in Kigali, further complicating the matter as both countries vie for the opportunity to host a prestigious Formula 1 event. Formula 1 officials have stated their commitment to monitoring the situation closely and are evaluating all requests from potential host countries with respect to their values and interests in the sport.