South Africa extends Grand Prix bid deadline amid fierce competition as hope is renewed for African motorsport – The ambition to bring Formula One back to Africa remains alive, but time is running out. In a crucial development, the South African government has extended the deadline for potential host cities and promoters to submit their bids for a future Formula One Grand Prix.

The decision signals that the battle to secure Africa’s long overdue return to the F1 calendar is far from over. With the historic Kyalami circuit facing uncertainties and Cape Town’s proposal for a street race on the waterfront gaining momentum, the competition for hosting rights in South Africa has intensified. The country has not hosted a Formula One race since 1993 and the question remains: Will South Africa finally stage the return of elite motorsport, or will Africa continue to be left out of the pinnacle of motorsport?

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Deadline extended: What’s at stake?

In an effort to ensure the strongest possible bid, the South African Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially extended the bid deadline from 31 January 2025 to 18 March 2025.

This extension will give stakeholders additional time to submit well-structured and comprehensive proposals in line with the requirements of the ‘Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI)’ issued by the Department.

In a statement, DSAC emphasised its commitment to transparency and a competitive selection process: “This extension is intended to provide stakeholders with additional time to submit comprehensive, well-structured proposals in accordance with the requirements of the RFEOI.

“The Department is committed to a transparent and competitive process to secure this prestigious motorsport event”

The message is clear: South Africa is determined to get this right. A successful Formula One bid would not only restore the country’s racing heritage, but would also boost tourism, create jobs and raise its global profile.

The stakes are incredibly high and with fierce international competition for F1 calendar slots, South Africa cannot afford another failed attempt.

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Kyalami vs Cape Town: a battle for the Grand Prix

For years, Kyalami has been the frontrunner in South Africa’s bid to host a Formula One race. However, Cape Town has emerged as a strong contender, sparking an intense debate over which city should represent South Africa on the global F1 stage.

Kyalami has history on its side, but Cape Town’s global appeal, scenic route and modern infrastructure make it a compelling option for Formula One’s return to Africa. The final decision is likely to come down to a combination of financial backing, government support and FIA approval.

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Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit: A historic venue in limbo

– Hosted the last South African Grand Prix in 1992 and 1993
– Currently holds FIA Grade 2 certification, meaning it needs to be upgraded to qualify for F1
– Significant funding required for track modifications and infrastructure improvements
– Has a rich heritage and proven track layout, but lacks the modern facilities of modern F1 circuits

 

Cape Town Street Circuit: A Modern Alternative

– Would use parts of the Cape Town waterfront and DHL Stadium area.
– Already established as a motorsport destination, having hosted the 2023 Formula E race
– Has existing logistics and road infrastructure, reducing the need for major investment
– Potential hurdles include concerns over traffic and resistance from local authorities

 

 

 

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Why Africa needs Formula 1 back on the calendar

Formula One markets itself as a truly global sport, with races held in Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East and Asia. However, Africa has been absent from the calendar since 1993, a glaring omission that has drawn criticism from fans, analysts and even drivers.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has been vocal about the need for F1 to return to Africa. Speaking on the subject last year, Hamilton said: “We cannot add races elsewhere and continue to ignore Africa, which benefits the rest of the world. Nobody is giving anything to Africa.”

Hamilton’s statement echoes a wider movement within F1 circles for greater diversity and true global representation. Adding an African race is not just about history or fan demand – it is about making Formula One a truly inclusive and international championship.

In addition to South Africa, Rwanda is also making efforts to secure a Formula One race. Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, has put forward an ambitious proposal with a track layout designed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz. If successful, it could create an exciting dynamic; a battle between South Africa and Rwanda for Africa’s first modern Grand Prix.

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So what happens next? Will South Africa finally cross the finish line?

The window of opportunity is closing fast. The 2026 Formula One calendar is already taking shape and with Madrid confirmed as the new host of the Spanish Grand Prix, South Africa must move quickly to solidify its bid.

The extended deadline gives organisers, government officials and investors a crucial last chance to put together a viable and competitive bid. However, history has shown that passion alone is not enough to secure a Formula One race. **A successful bid requires significant financial investment, world-class infrastructure and unwavering government support.

South Africa is now at a crossroads. Will the country finally reclaim its place on the Formula One map? Or will another failed attempt see Africa wait even longer to return to the pinnacle of motorsport?

The final answer will come on March 18, 2025 – a pivotal moment that could determine the future of Formula One in Africa.

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Whilst the reason behind the supposed trouble relationship was never properly explained, Horner and Newey were rarely see together during the entirety of last season but of course the expected platitudes were exchanged when Newey made public his deacons to ‘take a sabbatical.’

F1 historians will know Newey used a similar phrase when he decided he was leaving McLaren, then within weeks it was announced he would be joining Red Bull Racing back in 2006. Similarly this time around the ‘sabbatical’ was short lived once Lawrence Stroll had rolled out the red carpet and his bank account to secure the services of F1’s most successful designer…READ MORE ON THIS STORY