The recent news of Rwanda launching an official bid to host a Grand Prix in the future has been met with excitement in African sports circles. Seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has previously pleaded for a race in Africa to join the calendar. No doubt, these are exciting times for African sports and those of us working in the space. However, I believe caution and more strategic and critical thinking are required when welcoming these global showcases. I must put an early disclaimer: I am not an F1 fan, but I have enjoyed watching bits here and there when visiting with friends and family or in recreation spots.
Hosting prestigious global sports events like Formula 1 can bring a wave of excitement and international attention. For Africa, the allure of such events often lies in the perceived economic benefits and the chance to showcase the continent on a global stage. However, placing too much emphasis on these one-off events can divert resources and attention from the more pressing need to develop a sustainable and self-reliant sports ecosystem. Here are key reasons why Africa should focus on building its own sports framework and creating exportable products and services instead.
Long-Term Economic Sustainability and Local Control
Global sports events like F1 often come with exorbitant costs for infrastructure and operations. While the events can boost tourism and create temporary jobs, the long-term economic benefits are frequently overstated. In contrast, investing in grassroots development, local leagues, and regional competitions lays the foundation for sustainable growth. This approach ensures steady economic opportunities that can benefit local communities for years.
Additionally, foreign entities typically own and control global events, leaving host nations with little influence over key decisions. By developing African-owned leagues, tournaments, and sports brands, the continent can retain the revenue, intellectual property, and decision-making power that come with these initiatives. This creates a stronger and more self-sufficient sports economy.
Building Talent and Exportable Products
Hosting global events often necessitates importing foreign expertise for logistics, management, and technical operations. This reliance sidelines local professionals and undermines the development of homegrown talent. By investing in African athletes, coaches, event organisers, and sports technology innovators, the continent can cultivate a robust talent pipeline that competes globally.
Africa also has immense potential to be a global leader in sports innovation. From world-class football academies and sporting events laced with the continent’s culture and tourism offerings to groundbreaking coaching methodologies, the continent can develop unique products and services to export. These offerings generate revenue, create employment for Africa’s burgeoning youth population, expand sports education opportunities and position Africa as a key contributor to the global sports industry.
Strengthening Grassroots and Regional Sports
Grassroots programs are the backbone of any thriving sports ecosystem. They provide millions of young Africans with opportunities to participate in sports, addressing broader social issues such as health, unemployment, and education gaps. Prioritising grassroots initiatives creates a pathway for producing world-class athletes and building strong domestic leagues and competitions.
Strengthening regional tournaments such as CECAFA and CHAN creates sustainable revenue streams and attracts local sponsors. These competitions also foster unity and collaboration among African nations, amplifying continental pride and engagement. The once-popular Kagame Cup (CECAFA Interclub Competition) is now a pale shadow of what it was. Very little has been invested to ensure the long-term socio-economic impact of CHAN in the East Africa region. No African sports competition is attracting the continent’s attention save for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON). Why should we break the bank to host global showcases?
Conclusion
While the prestige of hosting global sports events like Formula 1 is undeniable, Africa’s long-term interests lie in building a robust and self-sustaining sports ecosystem. The continent can unlock its full potential in the global sports industry by focusing on grassroots development, creating exportable products and services, and strengthening regional competitions. A well-established sports ecosystem can eventually attract international events to Africa organically, under terms that ensure more significant local benefits. This approach ensures that Africa becomes a leader in sports innovation and a net contributor to the world’s sporting economy rather than just a host for others’ successes.
