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Will Formula One return to Africa? 'We are making a bid'
At the FIA Congress in Rwanda, the African nation's president, Paul Kagame, stated his country is preparing a bid to host a F1 race in the near future, so the prospect of a return of the premier class of motorsport to the African continent is looking to be increasingly realistic.
'We are preparing a bid for Formula One'
Rwanda is now working on a bid to host an F1 race in the future. An African Grand Prix would benefit the country enormously with all the economic and social benefits that holding a place in the F1 calendar brings, and for F1 it would raise the championship's bar since it would now be racing in all five continents. Of course, the addition of an African race would also satisfy the drivers greatly, with Lewis Hamilton being a fierce advocate for years to bring the premier class of motorsport back to Africa.
"Many thanks to Domenicali and the entire Formula One team for the progression in our discussions. I assure you that our approach will get the commitment it deserves," Kagame stated.
However, not only Hamilton has been vocal about his desire to race in Africa. Max Verstappen has also been enthusiastic about holding a race there. "I think it would be great to have a race on every continent we have. I know it almost happened and then it didn't. I'm sure they put a lot of time and money into it to make it a success and also to promote the country. So I would definitely welcome it."
Kyalami also wants to bring F1 back to Africa
All is not said and done, nevertheless, since F1 already has to accept the bid and Rwanda has to build a track up to the FIA's Grade 1 standards. Kyalami is also looking to host an F1 Grand Prix, and in fact, a promoter has been found, restauration plans estimate the work around the facilites and the layout if the circuit will be finalised by 2027. So it looks as though both South Africa, where Kyalami is located, and Rwanda will have to see who gets the desired spot on the F1 calendar.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa, by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix.” President Kagame | Opening of FIA General Assemblies pic.twitter.com/LYznVhYArf
— Presidency | Rwanda (@UrugwiroVillage) December 13, 2024
This article has been written with the assistance of Jeroen Immink
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