South Africa Bids to host F1 after 32 years. Image: Kraton.
(The Post News)– The South African government has officially launched its bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix, targeting the 2026/2027 season as the starting point for this prestigious event. The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has issued a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) for promoters keen to bring F1 back to South Africa, a country that last hosted the race in 1993 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.
In December 2024, a Formula 1 Bid Steering Committee (BSC) was appointed to oversee this ambitious project. Led by Bakang Lethoko, the committee includes motoring experts and business leaders from various sectors. Their mission is clear: to position South Africa as a compelling choice for F1’s return to the African continent.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, expressed confidence in South Africa’s ability to host a world-class F1 race. “The RFEOI demonstrates our commitment to a transparent and competitive selection process. We believe South Africa has the infrastructure and passion needed to host an F1 race, aligning with our broader goals of economic growth and international recognition,” McKenzie stated.
The committee will assess proposals from across the country, with the Gauteng province and the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit emerging as frontrunners. Kyalami, currently undergoing renovations to meet F1 standards, has Minister McKenzie’s strong backing. “The race is going to happen at Kyalami. They are doing everything necessary to meet the required standards, and we are confident they will be ready,” he affirmed.
However, the bidding process remains open to other potential venues, with Cape Town also in the running. A proposed street circuit around the Cape Town waterfront or a purpose-built track outside the city are being considered. The RFEOI outlines stringent criteria, including sustainability measures and infrastructure capable of hosting up to 125,000 spectators daily, with a circuit length of 4.5 to 5.5 kilometres featuring at least a 1 km straight.
The BSC aims to select a promoter by February 2025, after which the chosen promoter will work closely with the committee to finalise the bid for submission to the Formula One Group and the FIA. This will include selecting the host city and specific race venue, with a strong emphasis on meeting F1’s sustainability standards.
South Africa’s desire to return to the F1 calendar is part of a broader effort to enhance the country’s international sporting profile. While the competition is fierce, with nations like Rwanda, Thailand, and South Korea also vying for a spot, South Africa’s rich motorsport history and renewed commitment to hosting an F1 race could make it a standout candidate.
Minister McKenzie’s determination to see F1 return to South Africa is palpable. “We have a storied history with Formula One, and we are determined to bring it back. It’s going to happen here in South Africa,” he concluded. Whether the bid will succeed remains to be seen, but South Africa’s proactive approach and comprehensive planning certainly signal a strong contender for hosting an F1 race in the near future.
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