McKenzie releases report showcasing South Africa’s bid to host F1 race

F1

Cape Town — Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, released the Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) for South Africa’s bid to host a Formula One (F1) event.

McKenzie announced on Friday the release of the RFEOI by the Bid Steering Committee (BSC) for all parties interested in participating in South Africa’s bid to host a F1 Grand Prix from 2026/27 and beyond, a statement read.

McKenzie appointed the BSC in December 2024 and their primary task was to manage and guide South Africa’s F1 bid process. The committee includes a group of experts working to ensure South Africa is picked as the candidate for the iconic global event.

The RFEOI document details the terms of reference, including minimum requirements and expectations for the interested parties and ensures transparent and compliant processes aligned with F1’s global standards. Minister McKenzie highlighted the significance of this milestone.

“This marks an exciting step in our journey to bring Formula 1 to South Africa. The release of the RFEOI demonstrates our commitment to an open, inclusive and competitive process, showcasing South Africa’s ability to host a world-class motorsport event and our broader ambitions for economic growth and global recognition,” he said.

He encouraged all eligible stakeholders to engage with the RFEOI and bid for the opportunity for South Africa to host an F1 event. 

According to Sports Illustrated, South Africa last hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami circuit and has been battling to reclaim its place on the F1 schedule.

Kyalami has been tipped as South Africa’s premier candidate as South Africa’s premium radce track, but there is also interest to host a street race in Cape Town. McKenzie is adament the race will be at Kyalami.

“The race is going to happen at Kyalami. Kyalami is doing what they need to do. [Circuit bosses] Toby Venter and Willie Venter are doing a great job bringing Kyalami to F1 standards. They have put money in there, it is there,” he said.

“They have met with Apex, that is doing the track to bring it to F1 standards. We are making sure that we are going to host, so I think we are looking at 2027. We were there, it’s going to happen. It’s coming here,” he added.

The deadline for submission in 31 January 2025.

Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Picture: X/@Thuso1Africa

For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com

Compiled by Matthew Petersen

Article written by