The dream of bringing Formula 1 back to South Africa is still alive—but the clock is ticking. In a major twist, the South African government has extended the deadline for potential host cities and promoters to submit their bids for a future Formula 1 Grand Prix, signaling that the race to secure Africa’s long-awaited return to the F1 calendar is far from over.
With Kyalami’s historic circuit in limbo and Cape Town’s waterfront street race gaining momentum, the battle for the country’s first F1 race in over three decades is heating up. But will South Africa finally deliver on the long-awaited return of elite motorsport, or will Africa continue to be sidelined from the pinnacle of racing?
South Africa Extends F1 Bid Deadline—What’s at Stake?
In an effort to attract the best possible bids, South Africa’s Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially pushed back the deadline for submissions from January 31 to March 18, 2025.
A statement from the Ministry explained:
“This extension aims to give stakeholders additional time to submit comprehensive, well-structured proposals in line with RFEOI [Request for Expression of Interest] requirements. The Ministry is committed to a transparent and competitive process to secure this prestigious motorsport event.”
Simply put—South Africa is desperate to get this right. F1’s return to the country would not only restore its racing legacy, but also boost tourism, economic development, and global visibility.
Kyalami vs. Cape Town: The Battle for the Grand Prix
While the legendary Kyalami circuit has long been considered the frontrunner to host an F1 race, Cape Town has emerged as a serious contender, sparking heated debate over which venue should represent South Africa on the global stage.
🏁 Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit
✔️ Hosted South Africa’s last F1 races in 1992 and 1993
✔️ Needs FIA Grade 1 certification (currently Grade 2)
✔️ Track upgrades required—funding remains a major obstacle
✔️ Has the heritage and layout, but lacks modern infrastructure
🏁 Cape Town Street Circuit
✔️ Utilizes the city’s stunning waterfront and DHL Stadium
✔️ Already proven as a motorsport destination (hosted Formula E in 2023)
✔️ Logistical and road infrastructure already in place
✔️ Faces challenges with local traffic and potential city opposition
Kyalami may have the history, but Cape Town’s global appeal and scenic track could make it the more attractive choice for Formula 1’s growing international audience.
Why F1 Needs Africa Back on the Calendar
F1 is a truly global sport, with races across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia. But Africa has been glaringly absent since 1993—a fact that has drawn criticism from fans, analysts, and even seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Hamilton made his stance crystal clear last year:
“We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world takes from. No one gives anything to Africa.”
His statement resonates with a growing movement in F1—one that demands a return to Africa, not just for diversity, but for the sport’s credibility as a truly global championship.
And South Africa isn’t the only country fighting for a place on the F1 calendar. Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is also pushing for a Grand Prix, with a circuit being designed by ex-F1 driver Alexander Wurz.
Could we see a new race war brewing between South Africa and Rwanda?
What’s Next? Will South Africa Finally Cross the Finish Line?
The window of opportunity is shrinking. F1’s 2026 calendar is already shaping up, and with Madrid confirmed to host the Spanish GP, time is running out for South Africa to prove itself worthy.
The extended deadline gives promoters, government officials, and investors a final chance to put together a viable bid. But history has shown that simply wanting an F1 race isn’t enough—you need the finances, infrastructure, and ironclad government backing to make it happen.
South Africa is at a crossroads. Will the country finally reclaim its place on the F1 map? Or will another failed bid leave Africa watching from the sidelines yet again?
The answer will come March 18, 2025.
