Formula One is looking to return to Africa, with South Africa and Rwanda as key contenders to host future races. Lewis Hamilton supports the initiative, emphasizing Africa’s importance in the F1 calendar. A decision on the venue will come from a committee led by sports minister Gayton McKenzie, who is optimistic about the prospects for the 2027 season.
Formula One is considering a return to Africa, with South Africa and Rwanda emerging as the primary candidates to host an upcoming Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has publicly supported the initiative, emphasizing the importance of including Africa in the F1 calendar. With the last race held on the continent in 1993, South Africa is mounting a strong bid through two proposed venues: a street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami track near Johannesburg.
The decision regarding the chosen venue will be made by a committee led by South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, who has expressed optimism about the Grand Prix starting as early as 2027. McKenzie stated, “The Grand Prix is definitely coming in 2027, no doubt about that,” highlighting that the priority is bringing F1 to South Africa, regardless of the location. The Kyalami circuit, though needing upgrades, holds historical significance, while Cape Town boasts a scenic street circuit design that some believe could surpass Monaco.
While South Africa appears to have a solid case, Rwanda is also a formidable contender, having recently engaged with FIA and F1 executives for potential collaboration. The Rwandan government has made strides in sports sponsorship, including partnerships with major football clubs and the NBA, positioning itself strategically for hosting major events. Some experts, like Simon Chadwick of Skema Business School, suggest that even less commercially viable races may still attract investment for strategic reasons.
Another consideration for Rwanda is its recent involvement in regional conflicts, which may affect its bid. As South Africa asserts its desire for hosting rights, the debate continues as to whether it is feasible to host multiple races on the continent both for tourism and economic development. McKenzie, reiterating the need for African representation in F1, posed the question of why Africa can only host one race.
In summary, the potential for a Grand Prix in Africa, specifically in South Africa or Rwanda, garners significant attention from both supporters and industry experts. With ongoing advancements and considerations influencing the bids, the outcome of these proposals will have profound implications on the future of F1 in Africa and its growing global presence.
The push for a Grand Prix in Africa is gaining momentum, particularly from South Africa and Rwanda, each offering distinct advantages. With powerful backing from influential figures like Lewis Hamilton, the prospects of seeing Formula One return to the continent appear promising. However, funding, regional dynamics, and organizational challenges will play crucial roles in determining which nation will host the historic race.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
