South Africa launches bidding process for F1 comeback
The African nation has taken a preliminary step towards a possible return to Formula 1 after a 32-year absence.
The South African government has launched a bidding process to find potential organizers to once again host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the country.
The Ministry of Sports, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) has formed a Steering Committee for the F1 Bid (F1 BSC), tasked with identifying promoters who could facilitate South Africa’s return to the F1 calendar. The last Grand Prix held in the country was in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit.
A desire to return
Despite several unsuccessful attempts in recent years, the government has reaffirmed its interest in a partnership with the F1 management. After exploratory discussions between South African representatives and the CEO of F1, Stefano Domenicali, during last year’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the Ministry of Sports has taken a further step by announcing a formal tender.
A 37-page document describes the requirements for organizing a race, including infrastructure, sustainability, and public transport criteria.
The main requirements:
– Lieu emblématique: proche d’une grande ville avec un accès au transport public et un respect des critères de durabilité.
– Capacité: jusqu’à 125 000 spectateurs par jour.
– Circuit: entre 4,5 et 5,5 km, avec une ligne droite d’au moins 1 km.
– Durée: contrat de 10 ans, à partir de 2026 ou 2027.
The interested developers must submit their proposals by the end of the month, after which the selection committee will draw up a shortlist.
What are the possible options?
Two cities have been mentioned. Kyalami: Located near Johannesburg, the circuit has engaged Apex Circuit Design to bring it up to FIA Grade 1 standards. Cape Town: Projects include an urban circuit around the waterfront or a specially built track outside the city.
Despite F1’s interest in a return to Africa, and similar discussions underway in Rwanda, international competition is tough. Countries like Thailand and South Korea are also seeking to join the calendar.
The 2026 calendar already seems saturated, but slots could open up in 2027 with adjustments, such as the integration of the Grand Prix of Belgium in a rotation system.
If the project succeeds, this will mark the long-awaited return of F1 to the African continent, offering an exceptional opportunity for the sport and the region.
Read also: Rwanda officially bids to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix
