Formula 1 in Cape Town? City Bids for Iconic Street Race

Cape Town is poised to make history as it bids to host a Formula 1 (F1) Grand Prix, with plans for a 5.7km street circuit around the iconic DHL Stadium in Green Point. The Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) is spearheading efforts to bring F1 back to South Africa, aligning with the country’s renewed focus on hosting global sporting events.

The proposed street track outline around DHL Stadium

Proposed Green Point Circuit Gains Momentum. CTGPSA has officially announced its intention to submit a bid to South Africa’s Bid Steering Committee (BSC). The proposed race would leverage the Green Point Sport Tourism Precinct’s scenic and logistical advantages, offering a layout reminiscent of other world-famous F1 street circuits in Monaco, Singapore, and Las Vegas.

The concept builds on Cape Town’s recent success in hosting the Formula E race in 2023 at the same venue. This event reportedly generated over R1 billion in economic impact, solidifying the city’s reputation as a prime location for motorsport events.

The bid has received strong backing from local and provincial government bodies. Western Cape Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, and Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie have expressed optimism about the project.

CTGPSA CEO Igshaan Amlay acknowledged this support, stating, “With the continued backing from local and international supporters, we are ready to bring an F1 street race to our spectacularly located circuit in Green Point.”

Amlay also emphasized the significance of this milestone following a 19-year journey of stakeholder engagements.

Economic and Tourism Benefits

Hosting an F1 event would be a major economic boost for Cape Town. According to NWU economics professor Waldo Krugell, major events like F1 can stimulate local economies by driving tourism and increasing spending. He cited the example of Taylor Swift’s concerts in Singapore, which are projected to raise the country’s GDP growth by 0.4% in a single quarter.

The potential impact of an F1 race in Cape Town could mirror or even exceed the Formula E race’s economic success, further positioning the city as a global sports tourism destination.

Cape Town is not the only city vying for the prestigious F1 spot. Johannesburg’s Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is undergoing upgrades to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, a requirement for hosting F1 races.

Kyalami, which last hosted an F1 race in 1993, remains a strong contender. However, Cape Town’s picturesque location, proven track record with Formula E, and strong stakeholder support may give it a competitive edge.

Picture: Fomula E

The return of F1 to South Africa has long been anticipated. With Cape Town and Johannesburg both presenting compelling cases, the final decision will rest on infrastructure readiness, stakeholder collaboration, and economic potential.

If successful, Cape Town could once again showcase South Africa on the global motorsport stage, delivering a thrilling event for fans and boosting the country’s economy.

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