Rwanda is emerging as a serious contender to host a Grand Prix in South Africa in the coming years. As a precursor, it will host the annual FIA Prize Giving Ceremony in December. However, the invited drivers must foot the bill for this expensive trip, a situation that Verstappen believes should change.
The choice is a remarkable one, likely driven by political motivations. The fact that the International Automobile Federation (FIA) has chosen the Rwandan capital, Kigali, as the venue for its annual Gala, where all champions are honored, is one thing. Perhaps it will contribute to the development of motorsport. Verstappen has no issue with Rwanda as a host, as long as it’s safe.
Concerns Over Costs
What he takes issue with, however, are the costs, especially for younger drivers. “Everyone who goes to that Gala has to pay for it themselves,” he claims. “I can afford it, but some people don’t have that money. There should be a consideration that if you are invited by the FIA, your travel expenses should be covered. It’s a bit strange: you’re invited, you’re obliged to go, and then you have to pay for it yourself. When I was karting, we always had to pay for it ourselves.”
