Kyalami circuit moves one step closer to hosting Formula 1 after FIA approval
Kyalami Circuit Edges Closer to F1 Return with FIA Grade 1 Upgrade Plans
The legendary Kyalami Circuit in South Africa is edging closer to reclaiming its place on the Formula 1 calendar after plans to upgrade its facility to FIA Grade 1 status were approved, paving the way for a potential return of F1 racing to African soil for the first time since 1993.
In a bold effort to bring Formula 1 back to the continent, Kyalami is competing against two other proposed venues, including a street circuit in Cape Town and a yet-to-be-constructed project near Kigali, Rwanda. Despite these ambitions, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has cautioned that a finalized deal remains "a long way off."
Kyalami’s Plan to Meet FIA Grade 1 Standards
The Kyalami circuit, located just north of Johannesburg, is currently rated as an FIA Grade 2 venue, which precludes hosting F1 races under its current configuration. To elevate the track to Grade 1 standards – a requirement for F1 – Kyalami has partnered with UK-based Apex Circuit Designs to implement significant upgrades. These enhancements will focus on safety measures, including improved run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, kerbs, and drainage. Notably, the circuit's iconic layout will remain unchanged.
Kyalami Circuit Owner Toby Venter expressed optimism about the milestone development, stating:
"Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami. We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil."
Venter, who purchased the circuit in 2014, emphasized the broader impact on South African motorsport, adding:
"This is a defining moment for South African motorsport. When we acquired Kyalami, we made a commitment to restore it, not just as a world-class venue, but as a beacon for motorsport across the African continent. The FIA's acceptance of our Grade 1 design is a major step forward in that journey."
F1’s Commitment to Expanding into New Markets
The quest to bring Formula 1 back to Africa reflects the sport's focus on expanding into new markets. F1 last raced in Africa during the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami, but Domenicali has repeatedly voiced his commitment to connecting with the continent. Speaking at the Monaco Grand Prix last month, Domenicali said:
"We are missing one continent, and we want to connect also to that. It's a matter of finding the right plan, and hopefully, we are going to update you soon on that project."
Competition from Kigali and Cape Town
While Kyalami appears to be the frontrunner, the proposal for a Kigali-based F1 venue faces political hurdles. Although Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced his country’s bid during last year’s FIA awards ceremony, the project’s prospects have dimmed amid tensions arising from conflict in nearby eastern Congo. Earlier this year, the Democratic Republic of Congo urged F1 to cease discussions with Rwanda, citing allegations of Rwandan-backed insurgencies in the region.
The Cape Town street circuit, meanwhile, remains under development, though it could provide another compelling option should Kyalami falter in its bid to secure a spot on the F1 calendar. Other countries outside of Africa, such as Thailand, are also vying for inclusion in Formula 1’s packed schedule.
The Road Ahead for Kyalami
For now, all eyes are on Kyalami, which continues its push to return to global prominence. With the FIA’s approval, the circuit has cleared a critical hurdle, setting the stage for what could be a historic moment in motorsport on the African continent.
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