South Africa is bidding to host the first African Formula One Grand Prix in 30 years, with competition between a street circuit in Cape Town and Kyalami race track near Johannesburg. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is optimistic about the bid, which aims for a 2027 event. Prominent support from Lewis Hamilton highlights the continent’s desire for inclusion in the F1 calendar, alongside Rwanda’s parallel attempts.
Three decades after the last Formula One race in Africa, South Africa is eager to host a new Grand Prix, hoping to revive the sport on the continent. The competition for the event is primarily between a street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami race track near Johannesburg. A committee led by South Africa’s sports minister will announce the winning bid later this year.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed confidence in the bid, stating, “The Grand Prix is definitely coming in 2027, no doubt about that. Whether it is Cape Town or Joburg, we do not care as long as the Grand Prix is coming to South Africa.” This event would mark the return of Formula One to Africa after the last race in 1993, won by Alain Prost.
Support from prominent figures, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, bolsters South Africa’s bid, as Hamilton advocates for an African Grand Prix, saying, “We can’t be adding races in other locations and continuing to ignore Africa.” The sport, now under U.S. ownership, aims to increase its global reach, with South Africa representing a significant opportunity to acknowledge its rich F1 history.
Although Kyalami requires updates to meet F1 standards, its historical significance as a site for thrilling races from renowned drivers adds to its appeal. Meanwhile, Cape Town offers a picturesque street circuit, recently hosting a Formula E race. The CEO of the Cape Town Grand Prix believes the city’s circuit would set a new standard, stating it would “outclass Monaco.”
Rwanda also aspires to host an F1 event, indicating competition for the prestigious race on the continent. The country has already established itself with sports sponsorships and partnerships, positioning itself well. However, its involvement in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo may hinder its bid, raising scrutiny regarding its viability as a host.
Despite rising competition, the possibility of hosting multiple Grand Prix events in Africa is still feasible. South African officials assert that there should be no limitation on the number of races the continent can host. As efforts to establish a vibrant F1 presence in Africa continue, observers await decisions that may alter the continent’s sporting landscape.
In summary, South Africa is actively bidding to host the first African Formula One Grand Prix in thirty years, competing against Cape Town and Kyalami. With support from key figures like Lewis Hamilton, and the historical significance of the venues, the bid represents a key moment for the sport on the continent. Simultaneously, Rwanda’s ambitions to secure a race add an interesting dynamic to the ongoing competition for representation in Formula One.
Original Source: www.france24.com
