Charles Esther
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is now one step closer to returning to the Formula One calendar.
Motorsport’s global governing body, the FIA, has approved the final design proposals needed to upgrade the circuit to Grade 1 status.
This approval is a key milestone because Grade 1 certification is a strict requirement for any venue hoping to host a Formula One race.
This marks a historic move for motorsport on the African continent and a possible return of F1 to South Africa after over three decades.
FIA Grade 1 Approval Marks Major Milestone
The official announcement was made during a media briefing hosted by Kyalami’s owner Toby Venter and Apex Circuit Design founder Clive Bowen.
They revealed that the FIA had finally approved Kyalami’s Grade 1 upgrade design after nearly five years of planning and development.
Apex, a UK-based firm known for designing the Miami Grand Prix circuit, is leading the engineering and upgrade work at Kyalami.
Toby Venter stated that this moment is a defining point for South African motorsport and a dream that started in 2014.
Since acquiring the track that year, his goal has always been to transform Kyalami into a world-class motorsport venue once again.
What the Upgrades Will Include
Though Kyalami will maintain its iconic layout, several safety and infrastructure upgrades are planned to meet modern F1 standards.
These include extended run-off zones, improved barriers, updated kerbing, and modern drainage systems to enhance safety and performance.
According to Bowen, the changes are light-touch in terms of engineering but critically important for FIA compliance.
The FIA has given the circuit a three-year timeframe to complete all work, allowing upgrades to be done in phases.
This scheduling method ensures that existing events at the track can continue without major interruptions.
Formula One’s History with Kyalami
Kyalami last hosted a Formula One race in 1993, a Grand Prix famously won by Alain Prost driving a Williams FW15C.
If the circuit passes the final inspection after completing upgrades, it will become the only FIA Grade 1 track in Africa.
This development would mark a major step in returning top-tier motorsport to the continent.
It also fulfills a long-standing dream for South African motorsport fans eager to see F1 action live on home soil.
Government Support and Growing Momentum
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie quickly responded to the news by sharing it on X, formerly Twitter, calling it a massive step forward.
McKenzie has been vocal about his desire to bring Formula One back to South Africa and continues to support the initiative publicly.
He established the Bid Steering Committee (BSC) to guide and evaluate South Africa’s efforts in securing a spot on the F1 calendar.
This announcement adds weight to South Africa’s growing campaign to return as a host for the world’s biggest motorsport event.
Cape Town Presents Strong Competition
Despite the progress at Kyalami, there is still competition for the official Grand Prix location.
The Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) group has confirmed it plans to submit its own proposal to the Bid Steering Committee.
Their plan involves a street circuit in Cape Town’s Green Point Sports Precinct, circling the stadium built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The proposed 5.7-kilometer track would bring Formula One to an iconic part of the city with picturesque views and tourism appeal.
Cape Town’s Track Record with Electric Racing
Cape Town hosted a Formula E event in 2023, which features only electric race cars and has a smaller fan base than Formula One.
Despite that, the event generated over R1 billion in economic activity and demonstrated the city’s potential to host large-scale motorsport events.
This history strengthens Cape Town’s bid and could influence decision-makers looking for strong economic and tourism returns.
What Happens Next for Kyalami and South African F1 Dreams
Now that the FIA has approved the designs, the next step for Kyalami is completing the actual upgrades on time and to specification.
A final inspection will determine whether the circuit earns full Grade 1 status and becomes eligible to host a Formula One race.
Ultimately, the selection of South Africa’s F1 venue will depend on multiple factors, including logistics, investment, fan engagement, and government backing.
