The Democratic Republic of Congo has referred to as on Formula One to finish discussions with Rwanda about internet hosting a race, warning that the Liberty Media-owned sport dangers tarnishing its model with a “blood-stained association.”
Ongoing clashes between the Congolese military and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in jap Congo have resulted in hundreds of deaths and displaced greater than 1 million individuals since early 2022.
Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, who has additionally urged high soccer golf equipment similar to Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain to sever sponsorship ties with Rwanda, despatched a letter to Formula One on Tuesday.
In her letter to Stefano Domenicali, CEO of the London-based Formula One, she expressed her “deep concern” over the game’s ongoing talks with Rwanda.
“While I applaud Formula One’s desire to host a Grand Prix in Africa, I question whether Rwanda would be the best choice to represent our continent and urge you to end negotiations and rule Rwanda out as a potential host,” wrote the minister.
“Does Formula One really want its brand smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda? Is this really the best country to represent Africa in global motorsport?”
Rwanda has been accused by Congo, the United Nations and a few Western international locations of supporting the M23 with troops and weapons.
Rwanda insists it has taken principally defensive positions to guard its borders and residents.
Formula One stated it was carefully monitoring developments.
“We have received requests from multiple locations around the world that wish to host a future Formula One race,” a spokesperson stated.
“We assess any potential request in detail, and any future decisions will be based on the full information and what is in the best interests of our sport and our values.”
Rwandan President Paul Kagame introduced in December, earlier than Formula One’s governing physique held a prize-giving gala in Kigali, that his nation needed a race.
Formula One final raced in Africa at Kyalami, north of Johannesburg, in 1993, and returning to the continent has turn out to be a precedence.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has additionally been concerned in behind-the-scenes efforts with each Rwanda and South Africa.
Wagner stated she would “wholeheartedly support” a South African bid.
“South African soldiers on peacekeeping duties in my country have been killed by the very regime you seek to do business with,” she added.
“For the sake of those who have given their lives in the name of peace, make the right choice and at least make their sacrifice worth something.”
South African troops are in Congo as a part of U.N. and Southern African missions. Thirteen had died in preventing with rebels as of the tip of January.
Source: www.dailysabah.com