Sports
Brad Binder Calls for Return of MotoGP and Formula 1 to South Africa’s Kyalami Circuit
KTM rider Brad Binder has expressed disappointment that both MotoGP and Formula 1 are not currently racing at South Africa’s iconic Kyalami Circuit, calling it “such a sick track.”
MotoGP hasn’t been to South Africa in over two decades, with the last Grand Prix held in Welkom in 2004, where Valentino Rossi secured his first Yamaha win. Meanwhile, Formula 1 has not visited since 1993, when it last raced at Kyalami.
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In 2023, a bid to bring F1 back to Kyalami fell through, but the South African government is continuing efforts to revive the South African Grand Prix. While MotoGP’s return to the country hasn’t been confirmed, Binder is hopeful both series will return to the track.
“I was actually at Kyalami recently,” Binder shared. “I did some laps before coming here, and it’s such a sick track. It’s such a cool venue, so it’s actually sad that we don’t have Formula 1 and MotoGP there. I really hope we get them back soon.”
Binder noted that while small changes might be needed to make Kyalami suitable for MotoGP, the track doesn’t require a complete overhaul. “For Formula 1, they won’t need to change a thing,” he said. “But for MotoGP, there are a few areas with all asphalt run-offs, and they need to have gravel, so some small changes would be required.”
Binder is confident that with minor adjustments, Kyalami would be ready to host MotoGP, stating, “They don’t need to rebuild it; just a few small tweaks, and it would be fine.”
Kyalami is currently undergoing work to meet the FIA Grade 1 standard required to host Formula 1 events, as part of efforts to secure a spot for the South African GP. Additionally, two proposals for hosting F1 races in Cape Town—one for a street circuit and another for a purpose-built venue—are also being considered.
While MotoGP has yet to announce plans for a return to South Africa, Binder remains hopeful that the iconic Kyalami Circuit will once again host top-tier motorsport in the future.
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