Sports
South Africa’s High-Speed Bid to Bring Formula One Back to Africa
After three decades, the roar of Formula One engines could once again thunder across African soil, with South Africa leading the charge to host a new Grand Prix in 2027. The country’s bid to bring the world’s most thrilling motorsport back to the continent is heating up, and it’s a battle between two iconic race locations: a stunning street circuit in Cape Town and the historic Kyalami racetrack near Johannesburg.
Formula 1 Returns to Africa!
South Africa Set to Host F1 Race in 2027 After a 34-Year Hiatus.@F1 pic.twitter.com/QBhmMLxDYw— Africalix (@Africa_lix) February 21, 2025
The Race for the Grand Prix
A special committee, created by South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie, will decide the winning bid later this year. But McKenzie is already confident that Formula One will return to South Africa in 2027—whether it’s in Cape Town or Johannesburg. “The Grand Prix is definitely coming in 2027, no doubt about that,” McKenzie declared in early February. “We don’t care if it’s Cape Town or Joburg, as long as the Grand Prix is coming to South Africa.”
Kyalami’s Historic Appeal
The legendary Kyalami Circuit, located just outside Johannesburg, is the centerpiece of South Africa’s F1 dream. This 20-mile track, adorned with a massive, colorful South African flag, once hosted some of Formula One’s most dramatic races. The last African Grand Prix took place in 1993, a year before South Africa’s first democratic elections. That race was won by F1 icon Alain Prost, and its return would mark an emotional and historic moment for the country.
A Push from Lewis Hamilton
South Africa’s bid has received strong backing from none other than seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. “We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa,” Hamilton said last year, echoing the calls for an African Grand Prix. With Formula One’s expanding global reach, returning to South Africa is more than just a nostalgic trip—it’s a necessary step in the sport’s global ambitions.
South Africa’s F1 History
F1’s history in South Africa is rich, with the country being home to the only African world champion, Ferrari’s Jody Scheckter, who triumphed in 1979. From strikes to historic moments in motorsport, the country has contributed significantly to Formula One’s legacy. And with the sport’s growing calendar, a return to South Africa could open doors for even more thrilling events in Africa.
Cape Town’s Spectacular Street Circuit
While Kyalami holds the historical advantage, Cape Town’s bid offers an exciting modern twist. A street circuit weaving through the vibrant city, past the iconic Lion’s Head mountain and the stadium built for the 2010 World Cup, has already hosted a Formula E race in 2023. Cape Town Grand Prix CEO Igshaan Amlay believes the street race could rival even Monaco, bringing a fresh, dazzling spectacle to the sport.
A Battle Beyond Borders
But the race for the Grand Prix isn’t just between Cape Town and Johannesburg. Rwanda is also making a strong push, with President Paul Kagame meeting F1’s governing body at the Singapore Grand Prix. Known for its growing sports investments, including partnerships with major football clubs and the NBA, Rwanda is positioning itself as a key player in the motorsport world.
However, Rwanda’s F1 bid may face challenges due to its involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Calls for action are already being made to reconsider Rwanda’s role in hosting major sporting events, including the upcoming Cycling Road World Championships.
Two GPs for Africa?
Despite competition from Rwanda, McKenzie has questioned why Africa can’t host more than one Grand Prix. “Why is it that when it comes to Africa, we are treated like we can only get one?” he asked, suggesting that two African Grand Prix could be a reality.
With such high stakes, South Africa’s bid to bring F1 back to Africa is set to ignite excitement across the continent. Whether it’s Kyalami’s historic thrills or Cape Town’s stunning streets, Africa’s motorsport future is looking brighter than ever.
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