Kyalami’s F1 Upgrade Approved Government Support in Limbo
Kyalami’s F1 Upgrade Approved, But Circuit Owner Urges Government to Act
South Africa edges closer to a Formula 1 return, but decisive state support remains key.
The dream of bringing Formula 1 racing back to South African soil took a major step forward with the recent approval of Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit’s FIA Grade 1 upgrade plan. However, circuit owner Toby Venter has warned that without firm and immediate government backing, the project risks stalling just as momentum builds.
Green Light for Critical Upgrades
In collaboration with Apex Circuit Design, Kyalami has devised a comprehensive roadmap to meet the strict safety and infrastructure standards required for hosting an F1 Grand Prix. Estimated to cost between R100 million and R200 million, the upgrades will include vital track modifications, enhanced runoff areas, barrier improvements, and pit-lane extensions.
Venter confirmed that Kyalami is already “90% ready” in terms of existing infrastructure, owing to previous investments, but emphasized that the final stretch requires significant financial and logistical support from the state.
Government Support Still in Limbo
While Sports and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi have expressed strong support for Kyalami’s bid, no formal agreements or funding commitments have been signed. The project remains in a “conceptual phase,” with government officials still consulting stakeholders and assessing financing options.
McKenzie has met with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to reinforce South Africa’s intent to rejoin the F1 calendar, describing the nation as “one step closer” to achieving this goal.
2027: A Plausible Return Timeline
Should the required upgrades, certifications, and contractual negotiations progress as planned, South Africa could host its first Formula 1 race since 1993 as early as 2027 or 2028. The Expression of Interest for the event is due by mid-March 2025, with both Kyalami and Cape Town submitting competing bids.
Despite Cape Town’s proposed street circuit being in the running, industry insiders suggest Kyalami enjoys stronger government backing, though critics have raised concerns about perceived preferential treatment.
The Final Lap: Action Needed Now
For Kyalami to seize this historic opportunity, Toby Venter stresses that the government must now translate verbal support into tangible commitments—securing funding for the final upgrades and addressing the estimated R600 million to R1 billion required for hosting and staging fees.
“The track is ready. The will is there. What we need now is decisive action,” Venter said.
As the global motorsport community watches closely, South Africa’s return to the F1 calendar hangs in the balance, awaiting the political will and strategic investment to bring the world’s premier racing series back to African soil.
Related Articles
