South Africa revives Formula One dreams after 31 years, targets 2027 return

South Africa is racing to bring Formula One back to its shores, nearly three decades after its last Grand Prix. Officials are eyeing a spot on the 2027 calendar, with hopes of sneaking onto the 2026 schedule if preparations advance swiftly.

“This is not just about motorsport; it’s about putting South Africa back on the global stage,” said Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie at an event in Midrand. He highlighted the economic and cultural impact of hosting F1, calling it an opportunity the country “cannot afford to miss.”

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A Team of Experts to Steer the Bid

The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has appointed a 14-member Bid Steering Committee (BSC) to oversee the process. Led by Bakang Lethoko, the team includes industry leaders like Gavin Varejes and Andrew Dunn, tasked with meeting the rigorous requirements set by Formula One Group and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

The committee plans to release a request for proposals by the end of the week. A final bid, including the proposed track and host city, will need Cabinet approval before submission.

Africa’s Push for F1 Representation

Minister McKenzie emphasized the importance of Africa hosting an F1 race, noting that Europe has ten races, including two in Italy. “Africa, with 54 countries, doesn’t even have one. It’s time for that to change,” he said.

South Africa faces competition from Morocco and Rwanda, but McKenzie dismissed the rivalry. “This isn’t a zero-sum game. We can all push for Africa to be represented on the F1 calendar.”

Addressing Financial Concerns

Critics have questioned South Africa’s ability to finance such an ambitious project. McKenzie countered, citing Rwanda’s bid despite its GDP being 30 times smaller than South Africa’s. “The question isn’t whether we can afford it, but whether we can afford not to,” he argued.

President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Government of National Unity have expressed their full support, viewing F1 as a driver for tourism and investment. According to the minister, the economic boost from motorsport events could be transformative, attracting global attention and creating jobs.

The committee’s initial proposal deadline is mid-February 2025, with hopes of securing a place on the F1 calendar soon after. “This is our chance to reignite South Africa’s motorsport legacy,” McKenzie concluded.