South Africa proposes a bid to return Formula One racing to the continent with two potential tracks: a street circuit in Cape Town and Kyalami race track. A committee will decide the winning bid by the third quarter of the year, with support from notable figures such as Lewis Hamilton. This initiative reflects a broader desire to have Africa represented in Formula One alongside emerging bids from countries like Rwanda.
South Africa is initiating a bid to reintroduce Formula One racing to the African continent after a hiatus of over 30 years. The potential Grand Prix locations include a street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami race track located near Johannesburg. This contest to host the prestigious event highlights the nation’s ambition to bring excitement back to African motorsport.
A committee established by South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie will determine the winning track by the third quarter of the year. McKenzie expresses unwavering confidence that a Grand Prix is imminent for South Africa, stating, “The Grand Prix is definitely coming in 2027, no doubt about that.” The noteworthy Kyalami circuit, famous for its colorful South African flag murals, has a rich history of thrilling races.
The last Formula One race in Africa occurred in 1993, won by Alain Prost during a memorable season preceding South Africa’s first democratic elections. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, supports the bid, urging that Africa should not be overlooked in favor of other locations, emphasizing the importance of an African Grand Prix for the sport.
Dr. Samuel Tickell from the University of Munster noted that the legacy of Formula One in South Africa is significant, highlighting historic events and the country’s only world champion, Jody Scheckter. Since the F1 calendar is expanding with new races, hosting an event in South Africa would not preclude other venues.
Despite the high costs associated with organizing an F1 event, experts like Simon Chadwick note that many countries view these costs as strategic, often paying for events that may not be financially viable. Kyalami is certified as Grade 2, requiring some modifications, while the street circuit in Cape Town recently hosted the Formula E race.
Cape Town’s potential street circuit, which boasts stunning scenery, could rival Monaco, according to Cape Town Grand Prix CEO Igshaan Amlay. The city, however, faces competition not just from Kyalami but also from Rwanda, which seeks to establish itself in the F1 arena and may have an edge over South Africa due to its aggressive marketing strategies in international sports.
Rwanda’s ambition includes efforts to partner with global sports organizations, which have raised concerns regarding its geopolitical actions that could hinder its bid. The South African minister questions why only one African nation should capture the F1 spotlight, reflecting a desire for broader representation on the continent.
In summary, South Africa’s effort to revive Formula One racing marks a significant moment for the continent after a prolonged absence. As Cape Town and Kyalami vie to host the Grand Prix, the support from high-profile figures like Lewis Hamilton and the expanding F1 schedule underline the potential viability of such an endeavor. The competition with other African nations, notably Rwanda and Morocco, highlights the regional ambitions for greater representation in international motorsport.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
