Rwanda made motorsport history this week as it hosted two landmark FIA events: the annual FIA General Assembly and the FIA Awards Ceremony, both attended by President Paul Kagame and global leaders in motorsport.
Thursday, December 12: FIA General Assembly
The Kigali Convention Centre welcomed delegates for the opening of the FIA General Assembly on Thursday. Composed of automobile and touring clubs and national sporting authorities representing 245 member organizations, the assembly is one of the most important decision-making forums in the world of motorsport and mobility.
President Kagame delivered remarks during the opening session, chaired by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. In his address, Kagame emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the potential of motorsport to unite people across the globe. “In a world where various forces push us apart, sports must bring us together. Respect and inclusion are the keys to creating opportunities for all,” he said.
This was the first time the FIA General Assembly convened in Africa, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s 120-year history. Discussions during the assembly focused on the future of motorsport, sustainability, and initiatives to promote safer and more inclusive driving environments worldwide.
Friday, December 13: FIA Awards Ceremony
On Friday evening, the focus shifted to celebration at the BK Arena as the FIA Awards Ceremony and Dinner honored the champions of motorsport. This year’s event, hosted in partnership with Visit Rwanda and the Rwanda Automobile Club, marked the first time the prestigious awards were held in Africa.
President Kagame joined FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and motorsport leaders to celebrate achievements across various FIA championships. The event highlighted the success of top drivers, manufacturers, and teams, including:
•Max Verstappen, who claimed his fourth Formula One Drivers’ Championship.
•McLaren, which ended a 26-year title drought by clinching the Formula One Constructors’ Championship.
•Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe, who earned Belgium’s first World Rally Championship titles.
•Toyota GAZOO Racing, which continued its dominance in endurance and rally raid competitions.
The evening also showcased Rwanda’s own contributions to motorsport, including the unveiling of the first FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa, built by Rwandan polytechnic students in partnership with the FIA and the Rwanda Automobile Club. Queen Kalimpinya, Rwanda’s first female rally driver, shared her inspiring journey, stating, “We are not only present, but we are also competing.”
President Kagame used the occasion to announce Rwanda’s bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, bringing the sport’s most prestigious race back to Africa after three decades. “We believe in what we can do, especially with friends and partners, and building on what we already have,” he said.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised Rwanda for its growing role in motorsport and its vision for the future. “To stand here in Rwanda is to witness a nation uniting bold vision with practical action,” he remarked.
Both events showed Rwanda’s commitment to innovation, inclusion, and sports tourism. With partnerships in global sports and an increasing role in hosting world-class events, Rwanda is solidifying its position as a hub for cultural and athletic excellence.
As the stars of motorsport and global leaders departed Kigali, they left behind a renewed vision for Africa’s role in the future of motorsport, driven by Rwanda’s determination to lead with purpose and progress.
