South Africa takes step towards long-awaited F1 return

South Africa is intensifying its push to bring F1 back to the African continent, with President Cyril Ramaphosa set to attend a grand prix later this year as part of the country's lobbying efforts.

Thirty-one years have passed since Formula 1 last visited Africa, with South Africa's Kyalami Circuit hosting its final race in 1993.

The country's sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, announced the presidential visit, describing it as "a working visit, not a social one," as per African Business.

"The President's visit will allow us to observe, engage and strengthen our case," he said. However, he has not revealed which round Ramaphosa will attend, saying details will come "in due course, in coordination with the Presidency."

McKenzie outlined South Africa's systematic approach: "There are criteria that any country must meet to host a grand prix, commercial, logistical, infrastructural and safety requirements, and we are working methodically to meet each of them."

Stefano Domenicali and Lewis Hamilton's thoughts

The Kyalami Circuit, located north of Johannesburg, is central to these plans. Last year, the FIA approved plans to upgrade the facility to Grade 1 status, making it eligible for F1 once construction is completed within a three-year window. Apex Circuit Design, the British firm leading the project, plans engineering improvements that preserve Kyalami's 4.52km layout while adding required safety and infrastructure upgrades.

South Africa faces competition from other African nations. Rwanda launched its F1 bid in December 2024 with plans for a permanent circuit near Kigali, while Morocco is reportedly working on developing a facility near Tangier.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged the sport's interest in Africa last May, but urged patience. "We cannot go to a new place without staying for a long time. We are progressing our discussion with I would say three places in Africa. Realistically speaking, I don't think we're going to have an outcome in the very short term."

The championship has 24 rounds scheduled for 2027 and 2028, and the next opening on the calendar will also likely see Thailand and South Korea competing for a spot.

Seven-time F1 drivers' champion Lewis Hamilton has advocated for Africa's return. Ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, the Ferrari driver said: "For the past six years, maybe seven, I've been fighting in the background to get a grand prix...

"I know they’re really trying. I think they’ve been to quite a few different countries. I don't want to leave the sport without having a grand prix there [in Africa], without getting to race there, so I'm chasing them."

McKenzie, meanwhile, stated: "An entire generation of young African motorsport enthusiasts has never seen a Formula 1 race in their own backyard. We intend to change that."