(3 Minutes Read)
This effort reflects his broader strategy of positioning the country, once devastated by genocide, as a continental leader in Africa. Despite Rwanda’s geographic limitations, Kagame has consistently pursued political, diplomatic, and economic plans to boost the nation’s prominence.
Paul Kagame, president of Rwanda, embarked on a significant mission: bringing a Formula 1 Grand Prix to Rwanda.
This effort reflects his broader strategy of positioning the country, once devastated by genocide, as a continental leader in Africa. Despite Rwanda’s geographic limitations, Kagame has consistently pursued political, diplomatic, and economic plans to boost the nation’s prominence.
Kagame has not only transformed Rwanda’s economy but also its role in global sports. In recent years, Rwanda has secured sponsorship deals with major European football clubs and partnered with the NBA.
The country has invested heavily in sports facilities and will host the world cycling road race championships next year. Kagame’s close relationship with FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, further supports Rwanda’s bid to enter the global sports arena, including the possibility of hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Rwanda is in discussions with Formula 1 executives about hosting a race, a move that could cost billions of dollars. Though the idea of a Rwandan Grand Prix may seem far-fetched due to the lack of infrastructure and the country’s modest US$14.1 billion GDP, it is not impossible.
F1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali described Rwanda’s proposal as serious. Rwanda’s bid could gain momentum when it hosts the FIA’s annual general assembly in December, further enhancing the country’s motorsport profile.
Read Also:
https://trendsnafrica.com/rwandan-economy-clocks-whopping-9-7-growth/
Kagame views sports as a way to elevate Rwanda’s diplomatic standing. Hosting a major event like an F1 race could bring significant economic and diplomatic rewards, similar to how South Korea’s 1988 Olympics reshaped its global image.
