South Africa Pursues First African Formula One Grand Prix in 30 Years

South Africa aims to host its first Formula One Grand Prix since 1993, with bids from Cape Town and Kyalami. The decision will be made by a committee later this year. Hamilton and expert opinions support the significance of this event for F1’s return to the continent, while competitive bids from Rwanda and Morocco suggest a potential for multiple events in Africa.

South Africa is seeking to bring Formula One racing back to Africa for the first time in 30 years, with a new Grand Prix planned for 2027. The venues under consideration include a street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami race track near Johannesburg. A selection committee formed by sports minister Gayton McKenzie will decide the winning proposal later this year.

Both proposed tracks offer distinct advantages: Kyalami’s historical significance and challenging layout versus Cape Town’s scenic backdrop and modern capabilities. McKenzie expressed strong confidence in the bid’s success, stating, “The Grand Prix is definitely coming in 2027, no doubt about that.” The last Grand Prix in Africa took place in 1993, won by Alain Prost.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton is among those supporting the bid, emphasizing the importance of an African Grand Prix. Expert Samuel Tickell noted that returning to South Africa would be significant for F1, stating, “It has not raced there since the end of the apartheid era.” Expansion of the F1 calendar presents opportunities for multiple events without excluding other locations.

While Kyalami requires upgrades to meet F1 standards, the Cape Town circuit recently hosted a Formula E race. Cape Town Grand Prix CEO Igshaan Amlay claimed a race there would “outclass Monaco”. However, Rwanda is also a contender for hosting, with its President recently meeting FIA officials.

Rwanda’s involvement in international sports, including sponsorship of major football clubs and the NBA, puts it in a strong position. Morocco is also interested in hosting an F1 race, presenting a competitive landscape for African venues. McKenzie raised concerns about Africa being limited to a single Grand Prix when multiple locations could host events simultaneously.

Political issues may complicate Rwanda’s bid due to its role in regional conflicts. The potential involvement of Rwanda has raised discussions about withdrawing other scheduled events in the country. As South Africa seeks to reestablish its motorsport presence, it faces competition not just from Rwanda but across the continent.

South Africa is poised to regain an F1 Grand Prix for the first time in 30 years, with Cape Town and Kyalami competing for the bid. Support from figures like Hamilton and historical significance of the tracks bolster the country’s case. Additionally, Rwanda and Morocco add competitive pressure, highlighting the potential for multiple African Grand Prix events. The process, however, may be affected by broader geopolitical factors impacting Rwanda’s position.

Original Source: www.france24.com