South Africa is vying to host its first Formula One Grand Prix in 30 years, competing between Cape Town and Kyalami. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is optimistic about the bid’s success in 2027. The bid has support from Lewis Hamilton, and the interest of countries like Rwanda suggests a new era for African motorsport. Overall, there is potential for multiple African Grand Prix events.
South Africa is making a significant effort to host its first Formula One Grand Prix in 30 years, seeking to bring the prestigious event back to the continent. Currently, the competition for this opportunity is between two locations: a street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami race track situated near Johannesburg. A committee established by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is expected to make a decision by the third quarter of the year regarding the selected bid.
Minister McKenzie expressed confidence in the likelihood of securing the Grand Prix, declaring, “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.” The last African Grand Prix occurred in 1993, won by Alain Prost, just before the end of apartheid in South Africa.
The bid has gained notable support from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has advocated for an African Grand Prix, stating, “We cannot be adding races in other locations and continuing to ignore Africa.” With Formula One’s expansion aspirations under the management of Liberty Media, returning to South Africa could be a crucial step in the sport’s history, given its last race was held at the end of the apartheid era.
The financial viability of hosting an F1 race often does not deter countries from bidding, as the strategic benefits can outweigh costs. Simon Chadwick, a professor of sport and geopolitics, noted that countries like China invest in African sports infrastructure to secure access to resources, which may apply similarly to South Africa.
Kyalami race track, though requiring some upgrades, is certified as Grade 2, just below the necessary grade for F1. Conversely, Cape Town’s proposed street circuit includes picturesque elements, having recently hosted a Formula E event, and is touted for its potential to rival Monaco. However, the competition extends beyond South Africa, with Rwanda emerging as a contender for the F1 bid.
Rwanda’s strong ties in global sports sponsorship, including partnerships with renowned football clubs and the NBA, position it favorably in the F1 landscape. Notably, Rwanda’s involvement in regional conflicts, such as the unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo, may complicate its bid. South African officials have questioned why only one African nation can host an F1 race, hinting at the possibility of multiple races on the continent, as Morocco also harbors ambitions to host F1 events.
In summary, South Africa’s endeavor to host its first Formula One Grand Prix in three decades has garnered widespread attention. While competition exists between Cape Town and Kyalami for the hosting rights, support from prominent figures such as Lewis Hamilton enhances the bid’s credibility. Additionally, the interest of countries like Rwanda and Morocco suggests a growing recognition of Africa’s potential in the global motorsport arena, challenging the notion that only one African venue can host the illustrious event.
Original Source: www.france24.com
