More than 30 years later, Formula 1 could soon return to Africa. South Africa is intensifying its efforts around the Kyalami circuit.
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South Africa is stepping up to bring Formula 1 back to the African continent. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend a Grand Prix this season, as part of a strategic approach aimed at convincing decision-makers.
The Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “The president’s visit will allow us to observe, exchange, and strengthen our bid” he explains, specifying that it is a working trip.
Goal: to show that the country is ready to meet the very strict requirements imposed to host a round of the Formula 1 World Championship.
Kyalami at the heart of the project
The symbol of this hoped-for return is called Kyalami. Located near Johannesburg, this legendary track last hosted F1 in 1993.
Today, it is undergoing transformation. The FIA has approved a modernization project aimed at obtaining grade 1, essential to host the discipline.
The work, led by the firm Apex Circuit Design, aims to preserve the circuit’s DNA while improving safety and infrastructure.
African competition already underway
South Africa is not alone in this race. Other African countries have also expressed interest in hosting Formula 1.
Rwanda has officially launched its bid with a circuit project near Kigali, while Morocco is studying a location near Tangier.
This competition reinforces the need for South Africa to present a solid and credible file to the championship’s decision-makers.
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The president of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali, has already confirmed the sport’s interest in a return to Africa. But he calls for patience.
“We cannot go to a new country without committing to it long term, he explains. We are discussing with several destinations in Africa, but no immediate decision should be expected.”
With an already very busy F1 calendar for the coming seasons, each new arrival must be carefully planned.
Hamilton in active support
This project can also count on a heavyweight ambassador: Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion has been advocating for several years for a return of F1 to the African continent.
“For six or seven years, I have been pushing behind the scenes for a Grand Prix to take place in Africa, he confides. I do not want to leave this sport without having raced there.”
Beyond the sporting aspect, the return of F1 to Africa represents a major challenge for an entire generation of enthusiasts.
“An entire generation has never seen a Formula 1 race at home, McKenzie recalls. We want to change that.”
The message is clear: more than just a Grand Prix, it is a strong symbol for the development of motorsport on the continent.
Although obstacles remain numerous, the momentum is now well underway. And after more than three decades of absence, Formula 1 could finally reconnect with Africa.
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