The awards cover major competitions, including Formula 1, World Rally-Raid Championship, Formula 2, World Rally Championship, Formula E World Championship, World Endurance Championship, World Rallycross Championship, and World Karting Championships.
In addition to the athletes, FIA will also recognize outstanding teams and organizations for their contributions to motorsport innovation and excellence.
Below are the top athletes and achievements to be celebrated at BK Arena in Kigali on Friday night, December 13, 2024:
{{Formula 1: }} Max Verstappen (Red Bull) leads the list with 437 points, followed by Lando Norris (McLaren) and Charles Leclerc (Ferrari). Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, will be awarded for leading the best team of 2024.
{{World Rally Championship:}} Thierry Neuville (Hyundai Motorsport) is the champion, with 242 points, and will be honored alongside his co-driver, Martijn Wydaeghe.
{{World Endurance Championship:}} André Lotterer, Kévin Estre, and Laurens Vanthoor will share the award after tying with 152 points each.
{{World Rallycross Championship:}} Johan Kristoffersson (Sweden), a seven-time champion, will be recognized for his stellar performance, securing 240 points.
{{World Rally-Raid Championship:}} Nasser Al-Attiyah (Qatar) and co-driver Edouard Boulanger will receive the award for dominating this off-road endurance series.
{{Formula 2: }} Gabriel Bortoleto clinched the championship with 214.5 points across 11 races, outperforming 28 other competitors.
{{World Karting Championships:}} British racer Ethan Jeff-Hall will be awarded in the senior category, Kenzo Craigie in juniors, and Giuseppe Palomba for the 15-year-old category.
Apart from these disciplines, FIA will also honor motorsport legends for their significant contributions to the sport.
During an interview with the national broadcaster, Sulayem discussed the preparations and highlighted his own election as FIA President in 2018, emphasizing that he made history as the first president outside of Europe to make it.
“I am the first president of this organization who was elected outside of Europe. This means that the doors are open, and they are open to the entire world. This is where everyone can find their place,” he said.
The history was supposed to continue, as he sought to ensure that these doors would also open to Africa, specifically Rwanda, thanks to the leadership of President Paul Kagame. However according to him, some individuals attempted to block this idea, questioning the country’s security.
“I have learned a lot from President Kagame. He has a wealth of experience, and I can say he doesn’t represent just Rwanda but the whole of Africa. I asked these people, ‘What evidence do you have to suggest that other members should not attend?’” he said.
“If you don’t trust the security there, at least trust the FIA. Concerns about the Marburg virus outbreak were better left to health authorities to address,” he added.
Ben Sulayem also emphasized that people should change the perception that motorsport is only for the wealthy, as the cost of participating is not as prohibitive as some might think.
He gave the example of a car made in Rwanda, demonstrating that there are no excuses for claiming that race cars are too expensive, as they are now more accessible.
This is the first time the FIA General Assembly is held in Africa, and it will also celebrate 120 years of the FIA, with awards presented to outstanding athletes in the federation’s sports.
In the sixth-day match, Botswana won the toss and opted to bowl first, which meant Rwanda had to set a target. Rwanda posted a total of 168 runs in 20 overs (120 balls), losing eight wickets. In response, Botswana began their chase for 169 runs with strong early momentum, scoring 80 runs off the first 32 balls without losing any wickets.
However, from the 9th over (ball 49) onward, Rwanda’s bowlers regained control, steadily taking wickets. The match ended with Botswana managing only 143 runs in their 20 overs, with Rwanda dismissing nine of their batsmen.
Rwandan player Rukiriza Emile was named Player of the Match, having taken four wickets for 24 runs from 24 balls. He also contributed 29 runs in the batting innings, including seven runs off four balls.
In another match on Wednesday, Uganda defeated Nigeria by 23 runs. Uganda set a target of 151 runs in their first innings, with Nigeria managing only 128 runs in their chase. Uganda dismissed nine Nigerian batsmen during the match.
The tournament is still ongoing, with Rwanda set to face Uganda at 3:15 PM on Thursday, followed by Botswana taking on Nigeria at 7:30 PM.
Currently, Uganda leads the standings with 14 points, while Rwanda is in second place with 6 points. Both Nigeria and Botswana are tied with 4 points each.
The competition, held in Gahanga, will run until December 14, 2024, and will contribute points to the International Cricket Council (ICC) monthly rankings. In the latest ICC standings, Uganda is ranked 22nd globally, Nigeria is 36th, Botswana is 50th, and Rwanda is ranked 63rd.
The announcement was made during an extraordinary FIFA Congress on Wednesday. The tournament will be held in 15 stadiums across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and Neom.
In addition to Saudi Arabia’s victory, FIFA revealed that Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will jointly host the 2030 World Cup, with special centenary games taking place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, marking the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup.
Uruguay held the first World Cup in 1930. The decision to award the 2034 and 2030 tournaments was unanimous, with no competing bids.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the increased number of teams, stating that it would enhance the quality of the tournament while allowing more countries to participate.
This global expansion signifies FIFA’s commitment to bringing football to a wider audience, with 2034 set to be another milestone for the sport’s international appeal.
Balinda reflected on the significant progress that East Africa has made in professionalizing its sports sector, noting that governments, private sector partnerships, and institutions have worked hard to create better infrastructure, opportunities, and training for athletes.
However, he believes that there is still work to be done to elevate the region’s sports potential on a global scale.
“A key factor that will take East African sports to the next level is embracing diversity. Diversity will not only improve the quality of play but also encourage a more inclusive sporting culture,” he said.
He emphasized that sports are a powerful tool for breaking barriers and creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and gender identities.
By promoting diverse representation, from grassroots to elite competition, he believes that East Africa can continue to nurture talent in a fair and balanced environment.
Balinda also stressed the importance of involving women in sports leadership and decision-making roles, an area where East Africa has room for improvement.
“In order to truly progress, we must ensure that women have equal opportunities to participate and lead within the sports ecosystem,” he said.
As the games continue in Mombasa, the call for diversity and inclusion echoes across the region, urging policymakers, athletes, and communities to work together in building a more inclusive, professional, and sustainable sports sector.
East African countries are increasingly recognizing the value of sports as a vehicle for social change, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement. With more voices advocating for a more inclusive future, the region is poised to continue making strides in the global sports arena.
Among the new appointments are Célestin Nsabimana, who has been selected as a center referee, and Emmanuel Habumugisha, appointed as an assistant referee. They replace Nsoro Ruzindana, who has been a center referee for eight years, and Raymond Nonati Bwiliza, who had been an assistant referee for 12 years, both of whom have been removed from the list.
In another key appointment, Henriette Byukusenge steps in as a new FIFA-approved female center referee, taking over from Mukansanga Salima, who transitioned to a role as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
This makes a total of 17 referees now officially recognized by FIFA, well-represented across various categories. Rwanda’s representation on the international stage in 2025 will include the following;
{{Male Center Referees:}} Abdoul Karim Twagirumukiza, Jean Claude Ishimwe, Samuel Uwikunda, Patience Fidèle Rulisa and Célestin Nsabimana.
{{Male Assistant Referees:}} Saïd Hamisi Ndayisaba, Eric Mugabo, Justin Karangwa, Dieudonné Mutuyimana, Didier Ishimwe, and Emmanuel Hamugisha.
{{Female Center Referees:}} Aline Umutoni and Henriette Byukusenge.
{{Female Assistant Referees:}} Sandrine Murangwa Usenga, Alice Umutesi, Régine Mukayirangwa and Juliette Akimana.
Addressing reports suggesting Kenya’s unpreparedness and the possibility of Rwanda stepping in as a replacement co-host, Murkomen stated that such claims are unfounded.
“The truth is that we are hosting CHAN from February 1 to February 28, 2025. While the schedule and team allocations are yet to be finalized, we are burning the midnight oil to ensure our facilities are ready,” Murkomen told Kenya’s NTV on Monday night, insisting that plans are in top gear to expedite the arrival of essential materials by air to meet the tight deadline.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by delays in infrastructure development, particularly at the Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, but assured the public that efforts are underway to meet the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) requirements.
“I receive updates three times a week from contractors, who have assured us they will do everything humanly possible to meet the deadline,” he stressed.
Murkomen also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to hosting CHAN and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), clarifying that the bids for the two tournaments are independent of each other.
“Unfortunately, some have conflated the two. For CHAN, we committed to providing two stadiums, and we are on track to fulfil this obligation,” he explained.
In response to reports claiming CAF’s dissatisfaction and the potential relocation of CHAN matches, Murkomen stated: “There has never been a discussion about shifting hosting rights from Kenya to any neighbouring country. CAF officials are in constant communication with us, and their feedback has been constructive. President Patrice Motsepe will visit Kenya next week to inspect progress, which underscores their support.”
Murkomen acknowledged Kenya’s historical struggles with sports infrastructure but framed the current situation as a wake-up call.
“We need nearly Ksh7 billion (about Rwf70 billion) to bring our facilities up to the required standards. Despite competing national priorities, we are mobilizing resources and working with contractors to ensure readiness,” he said.
The minister also praised CAF for their collaborative approach and urged Kenyans to remain optimistic and patriotic.
“This is a critical moment for our nation to reclaim its place as a leader in African sports. Hosting CHAN and AFCON will leave a lasting legacy for our sports infrastructure and inspire future generations,” he noted.
Murkomen’s reassurances come amid heightened public scrutiny and concerns over Kenya’s ability to deliver on its hosting commitments.
CHAN 2025 is scheduled to begin on February 1, 2025. CAF initially awarded co-hosting rights for CHAN 2025 to three countries from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) zone including Tanzania and Uganda.
With Kenya struggling to meet the necessary requirements, reports emerged over the weekend that Rwanda was being considered as a replacement co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenyan media reports indicate that CAF delegates visited Kenya last week and expressed dissatisfaction with the state of preparations. The delegates reportedly issued a deadline of December 31, 2024, for Kenya to complete the required work or lose its hosting rights.
Currently, Kenya has no CAF-approved stadiums for the tournament. Kasarani Stadium, one of the proposed venues, is only 30% complete, while Nyayo Stadium lags even further behind.
In contrast, Rwanda’s infrastructure is well-prepared. Stadiums such as Amahoro Stadium, Kigali Pelé Stadium, and Huye Stadium all meet CAF standards and are capable of hosting CHAN matches. Rwanda previously hosted the entire tournament in 2016, demonstrating its capability.
The player left Kigali on Sunday, December 8, 2024, heading to Portugal where he is set to undergo a 10-day trial with Sporting Clube de Braga in the Primeira Liga.
But that’s not all; he will also try his luck in Belgium with Anderlecht, a top-tier team in the Belgian Pro League. If opportunities arise, he may also explore chances with Lille in France, a team that plays in Ligue 1.
Iradukunda is expected to spend a month in Europe and will return to Rwanda in January 2025.
Not only are these clubs interested in him, but Turkish team Antalyaspor, currently in 11th place in the Turkish Super League, has also extended an invitation.
The 18-year-old is one of the most talented players in Rwanda’s Premier League. Last season, he was awarded the Best Young Player after an impressive performance.
In the 55 matches he has played in the Rwandan Premier League, he has scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists.
In a statement on Sunday night, the FIA, the governing body of motorsport, announced that the endeavour stems from a penalty imposed on the Dutch driver for indiscreet remarks made during a Singapore Grand Prix press conference in September.
As part of the sanction, Verstappen will engage in “work of public interest” during his visit to Kigali for the FIA Prize-Giving Gala, where he will collect his fourth consecutive Formula One World Championship trophy.
The 2024 FIA Awards ceremony, scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, will mark the first time the event is held in Rwanda.
The occasion will also provide a platform for Verstappen’s involvement in a development program organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).
Verstappen will assist junior competitors in the program, showcasing an FIA Affordable Cross Car—a locally built vehicle designed using FIA blueprints.
The 27-year-old’s season has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Verstappen clinched his fourth title in Las Vegas, solidifying Red Bull’s dominance in the championship.
However, he faced scrutiny after receiving a 10-second penalty in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix following a first-lap collision with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.
Despite his fiery on-track demeanour, Verstappen expressed regret over the incident, stating: “I apologized to Oscar. I never want to crash with anyone, especially not someone like Oscar, who is a great guy.”
Now, in Kigali, Verstappen’s efforts will focus on promoting motorsport accessibility and nurturing future talent—a meaningful contribution to the sport that has defined his illustrious career.
The match, a rescheduled Day 3 fixture, marked the first Rwanda Premier League (RPL) game to be held at the newly renovated 45,000-seater stadium since its official reopening in July.
From the first whistle, both teams approached the game with caution, knowing the significance of this clash in the Rwandan football calendar. Rayon Sports, the league leaders, and defending champions APR FC, showcased their tactical prowess, with both sides creating a flurry of chances but unable to break the deadlock.
In the opening minutes, Rayon Sports’ Fall Ngagne had the first shot on goal, but his effort was easily collected by APR’s goalkeeper, Pavelh Ndzila.
The Blues dominated possession early on and were threatening with a series of crosses and set pieces. In the 18th minute, Ngagne found himself in a promising position after a clever pass from Olivier Niyonzima but could only shoot wide of goal with the goalkeeper at his mercy.
APR, on the other hand, responded with a dangerous free kick in the 19th minute when Bugingo Hakim fouled their striker near the penalty box. Ramadhan Niyibizi’s powerful strike hit the crossbar, with both teams unable to capitalize on such opportunities in the opening half.
The first half saw both teams miss golden chances. In the 24th minute, fans at Amahoro Stadium showed their appreciation for the stadium’s renovation, applauding President Paul Kagame.
By the half-hour mark, Rayon’s Ombalenga Fitina made a brilliant run on the right flank, crossing for Ngagne, whose header was saved by Ndzila. Just moments later, APR’s Mamadou Sy had a close-range shot blocked by Rayon’s Khadime Ndiaye, with the rebound denied by the defense.
The second half saw both teams intensify their efforts to secure a goal. APR began making attacking substitutions, bringing on Arsene Tuyisenge and Jean Bosco Ruboneka in the 61st minute.
Rayon responded by introducing Serumogo Ally and Adama Bagayogo to keep the pressure on the army side. However, despite the tactical changes and increased attacking play, neither side could find the elusive goal.
Both teams were awarded free kicks in dangerous positions, but Rayon’s Hakim Bugingo and APR’s Niyibizi saw their respective shots blocked by defenders or go off target. As the match entered its final stages, the intensity continued to rise, but with no breakthrough.
A free kick in the 80th minute for Rayon Sports, following a handball by Clement Niyigena, failed to yield a goal, with Bugingo’s effort hitting the wall.
APR’s last substitution came in the 87th minute, with Johnson Nwobodo Chidiebere replacing Lamine Bah, while Rayon brought on Junior Elenga for Aziz Bassane a minute later. Despite the late drama and three minutes of added time, the match ended with both sides sharing the spoils.
The draw leaves Rayon Sports at the top of the league with 30 points, while APR remains in 4th place with 19 points. While both teams showed resilience, it was APR’s disciplined defense and strategic play that ensured they held their rivals to a goalless draw in what was a hard-fought encounter.
This historic match at the newly refurbished Amahoro Stadium will be remembered not only for its competitive nature but also for the sportsmanship displayed by both teams. As the league progresses, this result sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the season.
