South Africa is actively negotiating with at least six private firms to fund a bid to bring the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix back to African soil.
GAYTON MCKENZIE PUSHES FORWARD
The push is led by Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie. He aims to raise approximately R1.8 billion ($100 million) over three years.
This is to cover the substantial hosting fees demanded by Formula One Management Ltd.
THE F1 GRAND PRIX HOSTING BID
The country faces stiff competition from rivals such as Rwanda and Morocco for a coveted spot on the F1 calendar, according to Business Insider.
Africa remains the only continent without a Grand Prix, a fact South Africa is determined to change. The nation last hosted a F1 Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit in Johannesburg.
Minister McKenzie has held critical talks with representatives during the Singapore Grand Prix, building momentum for the bid.
UPGRADE PLANS IN KYALAMI
A significant development bolstering South Africa’s case is the FIA’s approval of upgrade plans for Kyalami, according to ESPN.
Circuit owner Toby Venter is spearheading the project to achieve the required Grade 1 status.
He even committed his own funds as a “patriotic duty” to meet the international standard for the F1 Grand Prix without direct government financing.
THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF THE F1 GRAND PRIX IN SOUTH AFRICA
The government emphasises that this bid will not rely on public money. Instead, companies like MTN, MultiChoice, and Heineken have shown support.
Proponents argue that hosting a premier event offers immense economic value, citing the R1 billion-plus impact of Cape Town’s Formula E race.
RACING AHEAD
With upgrade plans approved and private sector talks advancing, South Africa is racing to secure a slot on the 2027 F1 calendar.
The successful return of an F1 Grand Prix would firmly put South Africa and Kyalami back on the global motorsport map.
