Formula 1 could finally be roaring back to Africa, with South Africa’s Kyalami Circuit leading the charge after decades of absence. Owners of the iconic track near Johannesburg have announced a R117m (£7.7m/$9.8m) investment to upgrade the circuit to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, required to host an F1 Grand Prix. The ambitious renovations aim to bring the pinnacle of motorsport back to the continent by 2027—but the competition to secure a race slot is heating up.
Africa’s Long F1 Drought and the Push for Its Return
Africa has not hosted a Formula 1 race since the 1993 South African Grand Prix, where Alain Prost clinched victory. The absence of a race in Africa—a continent covering over 20% of the Earth—has long been criticized by drivers, particularly seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has repeatedly called for F1 to truly become a “world championship.”
The momentum to end Africa’s F1 drought is stronger than ever. With the explosion of F1’s popularity, fueled by Netflix’s Drive to Survive, the Kyalami Circuit is positioning itself as the ideal location. Already boasting strong infrastructure and track quality, the circuit needs upgrades primarily focused on safety, including expanding Armco barriers and runoff areas.
Kyalami Faces Competition on Home Soil and Beyond
While Kyalami appears to be the frontrunner, it isn’t the only South African bid in play. The Wakanda Smart City (WSC) project in the Eastern Cape has emerged as a rival contender, proposing a Grand Prix as the jewel of its ambitious futuristic city modeled after Dubai, Singapore, and Monaco.
Bid director MK Malefane has touted WSC’s financial backing, promising no reliance on government funds. However, he alleges that the selection process for hosting the race has been biased toward Kyalami.
“All we now seek is the free and fair opportunity to present our case as part of a clear selection process,” Malefane said.
Adding to the tension, Rwanda has also thrown its hat into the ring. Kigali, the nation’s capital, is already in discussions with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and recently hosted the FIA Awards ceremony. While Kigali lacks an existing circuit, plans for a state-of-the-art track near the international airport are underway, signaling Rwanda’s serious intent to challenge South Africa’s bids.
Kyalami’s Edge: A Track with History and Readiness
Despite the competition, Kyalami has key advantages. The circuit is already around 90% ready to host F1 races, with infrastructure and fan facilities praised by experts. In contrast, Wakanda Smart City remains under construction, and Rwanda is starting from scratch.
Kyalami’s historical significance adds to its appeal. As the site of F1’s last African race and a venue with a legacy stretching back to the 1960s, it holds sentimental and symbolic value. The planned upgrades will modernize the circuit while preserving its heritage, ensuring it meets F1’s demanding standards.
The Stakes Are High
With F1’s calendar growing increasingly crowded, securing a race in Africa won’t be easy. South Africa’s bids must contend not only with each other but also with Rwanda’s ambitious pitch. However, if successful, an African Grand Prix would mark a transformative moment for F1, expanding the sport’s global footprint while honoring its commitment to inclusivity.
For now, Kyalami remains the frontrunner, but the race is far from over. As track upgrades progress and rival bids gather momentum, the question looms: Will South Africa reclaim its place in Formula 1, or will another African nation steal the spotlight?
