South Africa is accelerating efforts to bring Formula 1 back to the country, with plans to meet F1 organisers by year-end to discuss hosting a race.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille confirmed at a press conference last week that she would attend the meeting – which will likely take place in December, potentially in Abu Dhabi – along with Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie.
McKenzie's department was leading the charge to secure the event, while the tourism department planned to use the opportunity to promote South Africa as a global destination, said De Lille.
The tourism department, which has a budget for infrastructure and maintenance, could also assist with building or upgrading the infrastructure required for the event, she said. A decision has not yet been made on where in South Africa the race would take place.
“The franchise holders want to consult with the government – it’s not just a private-sector issue. Minister McKenzie and I will then bring feedback to the Cabinet as it’s the Cabinet’s decision to determine what is required,” said De Lille.
In September, McKenzie posted on social media that he had met with Stefano Domenicali, CEO of the Formula One Group, saying they were “one step closer” to securing the race for South Africa. McKenzie has also met with Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to discuss additional support for the country’s bid.
To date, only two African countries – Morocco and South Africa – have hosted a Formula 1 race, with South Africa last hosting it in 1993. Rwanda is also vying to host a race. “Rwanda is a bit ahead of us, and is about to sign with F1,” De Lille said.
While South Africa currently lacks a qualifying track, Kyalami Circuit holds an FIA Grade 2 certification. Recently, Johannesburg hosted Formula 1 driver David Coulthard and his Oracle Red Bull Racing RB7 car during the Red Bull Showrun event, which drew a crowd of 20 000 people.
Formula 1 is a fast-growing sport, drawing thousands of fans over race weekends. Silverstone in the UK drew a record 480 000 fans over its race weekend in 2023, while in Japan, 220 000 fans attended the two days. However, hosting a race comes with significant costs, with race fees ranging from US$15 million (R263 million) to $50 million (R878 million), according to the Michigan Journal of Economics.
