Formula 1 says it is "closely monitoring" the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the context of Rwanda's bid to host a grand prix.

Formula 1 has said it is closely monitoring developments after concerns were raised by the Democratic Republic of Congo over a potential race in Rwanda.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially warned F1 to abandon talks with Rwanda over the possibility of hosting a round of the world championship.

When the Rwandan capital Kigali hosted the FIA's end-of-year prize-giving gala in December, President Paul Kagame formally outlined the country's ambitions to bring Formula 1 to Africa.

F1 chiefs have raised concerns over hosting a Grand Prix in Rwanda and could opt against handing the country a race during the 2027 season. Last year, Rwanda and South Africa both launched bids to host the first F1 race on the African continent since 1993.

Formula 1 will be “smeared by a blood-stained association with Rwanda” if it stages a race in Kigali, says the Democratic Republic of Congo.

African country Congo has thrown a spanner in the works of neighbouring Rwanda's clear plans to join the Formula 1 calendar. (…)

The Democratic Republic of Congo has made a formal plea to Formula 1, urging the latter to abandon its discussions with Rwanda.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has urged Formula One to end talks with Rwanda over hosting a race, saying the Liberty Media-owned sport risks having its brand "smeared by a blood-stained association".

F1 responds to letter sent by DRC government discouraging it from hosting a race in neighbouring Rwanda amid bloody conflict