South Africa Launches Bid
By Sello Masilo
South Africa has officially entered the race to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, as Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie announced the establishment of a bid steering committee during an event at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.
The country, which last hosted a Formula 1 race in 1993, is eager to secure its spot on the global F1 calendar for 2026 or 2027. Minister McKenzie described the bid as a “significant step” in reviving the nation’s motorsport legacy while driving economic growth through tourism, job creation, and international investment.
A Historical Return to Formula 1
The last South African Grand Prix was held in 1993 at the Kyalami Circuit, with French driver Alain Prost emerging victorious for Williams. The race held immense prestige, marking decades of motorsport tradition in South Africa, dating back to 1934 when races were hosted at Prince George Circuit in East London.
Addressing the gathering, McKenzie highlighted the strategic importance of bringing Formula 1 back to Africa. He stated, “Africa should not be left behind. We must get the F1 here, not just for the thrill but for the economic opportunities it creates.”
McKenzie acknowledged that Rwanda’s recent bid to host a Grand Prix in Kigali has intensified competition on the continent. Last week, Rwanda hosted the prestigious FIA Awards, attracting motorsport elites and strengthening its case as a rising hub for international events.
The Role of the Bid Steering Committee
Minister McKenzie, alongside Gauteng’s Acting Premier Lebogang Maile, announced the Formula 1 Bid Steering Committee tasked with spearheading the country’s formal bid. The committee comprises key figures in motorsport, broadcasting, and business, including:
• Anton Roux, Chairperson of Motorsport South Africa
• Vick Marat, CEO of Motorsport South Africa
• Rendani Rova, CEO of SuperSport
• Steven Watson, a renowned motorsport expert
• Shane Waters, prominent events coordinator
• Shanil Lee Kruger and other specialists
McKenzie praised the team’s collective expertise, stressing their autonomy to determine the most viable host venue. While Kyalami remains a front-runner due to its historical significance and existing infrastructure, McKenzie left room for alternatives such as Cape Town or Durban, depending on committee recommendations.
“This team will decide where the race will be held. Kyalami is iconic, but other cities also have potential to showcase our capabilities,” he added.
Economic Viability and Funding
Addressing concerns over the financial feasibility of hosting Formula 1, McKenzie reiterated that the benefits outweigh the costs.
“Hosting Formula 1 is not just an expense; it’s an investment. Tourism will boom, thousands of jobs will be created, and sponsors will rush in to be part of the event,” McKenzie said.
He further assured stakeholders that hosting the event would not solely depend on government funding. “If government won’t pay, the private sector will. We are determined to see this through.”
Gauteng Province as the Front-Runner
Gauteng’s Acting Premier, Lebogang Maile, expressed confidence in the province’s ability to host the global sporting event.
“Gauteng has the infrastructure, the experience, and the passion to deliver events of this magnitude,” Maile said. “We successfully hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and we can certainly do the same for Formula 1.”
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit: A Contender
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, located in Midrand, remains a strong candidate to host the proposed event. The track, which underwent a R100-million renovation in 2015, is one of the few circuits in Africa certified by the FIA Grade 2 standards—an essential requirement for hosting F1 events.
While the circuit has hosted high-profile events such as the Intercontinental GT Challenge, it would need further upgrades to meet FIA Grade 1 standards for Formula 1.
Competitive Pressure from Rwanda
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame announced his country’s ambitious bid to host an F1 Grand Prix in Kigali, capitalising on its successful hosting of the 2024 FIA Awards. With the backing of global sponsors and strong political will, Rwanda has emerged as a serious competitor for the African race slot.
Motorsport analyst Benjamin Luro explained, “Rwanda has proven its capability, but South Africa’s rich history in Formula 1 and its existing infrastructure at Kyalami give it a competitive edge.”
Formula 1’s Growing Popularity in Africa
Africa remains the only continent without a Formula 1 race on the current calendar, despite the sport’s growing fan base on the continent. The successful hosting of F1 races in new locations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia has shown the economic potential of expanding the calendar to emerging markets.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali previously hinted at the organisation’s interest in returning to Africa, describing it as a “priority market.”
Legacy of Hosting International Events
South Africa’s successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup serves as a benchmark for large-scale sporting events. The World Cup generated substantial economic benefits, including infrastructure development, tourism growth, and global exposure for the country.
Sports economist Dr. André Roux said, “The 2010 World Cup demonstrated that South Africa has the capacity to deliver world-class events. Hosting Formula 1 could replicate this success and provide a significant boost to the economy.”
Next Steps for South Africa’s Bid
The Formula 1 Bid Steering Committee will work closely with the FIA and Formula 1 Group to finalise South Africa’s proposal. Key priorities include:
1. Securing Funding: Engaging private sponsors and corporate partners
2. Venue Selection: Determining the most suitable track for the event
3. Infrastructure Development: Upgrading facilities to meet FIA standards
4. Community Engagement: Ensuring local communities benefit from the event
McKenzie confirmed that the bid submission process would begin in early 2025, with hopes of securing a spot on the 2026 or 2027 Formula 1 calendar.
Conclusion
South Africa’s bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix marks a significant step in reviving the country’s motorsport legacy while driving economic growth. With strong government support, private sector involvement, and an experienced steering committee, the country is well-positioned to bring Formula 1 back to African soil.
Minister McKenzie summed up the nation’s determination: “We are ready. South Africa deserves Formula 1, and we will get it.”
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