Kyalami Circuit Eyes Formula 1 Return with Major FIA Announcement

In an exciting development for motorsport enthusiasts, the Kyalami circuit in South Africa has announced its intention to once again host Formula 1 races, following a significant decision by the FIA. The circuit has been granted a three-year window to upgrade its facilities to achieve FIA Grade 1 status, paving the way for a possible return to the F1 calendar.

Kyalami last held a Formula 1 race in 1993, with legendary driver Alain Prost claiming victory for Williams. However, financial difficulties and political challenges led to the discontinuation of the event, leaving Africa without a representation on the prestigious F1 calendar for over three decades.

As the continent seeks to re-establish its presence in the world of Formula 1, Kyalami appears to be at the forefront of this movement. While Rwanda is also in consideration for hosting rights, South Africa is reportedly leading the charge, with discussions surrounding whether Kyalami or Cape Town should be the chosen venue for the Grand Prix.

The decision to host a race involves substantial financial commitments, as the upgrades necessary for Grade 1 certification are dependent on securing a spot on the F1 calendar. The announcement from Kyalami noted that “Selected works will be actioned pending the successful outcome of South Africa’s place on the Formula 1 calendar and Kyalami being selected as the preferred hosting venue.”

Currently, Kyalami features a 4.522-kilometer layout that received upgrades in 2016 and holds FIA Grade 2 certification. The circuit has demonstrated its viability as a year-round commercial venue, hosting events like the Kyalami 9-Hour endurance race.

The FIA has provided written approval for the proposed upgrades, which will focus on enhancing safety features such as run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, kerbing, and drainage, without altering the existing circuit layout. Once these improvements are finalized and approved, Kyalami would stand as Africa’s sole FIA Grade 1 circuit.

“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” said circuit owner Toby Venter. “When we acquired Kyalami in 2014, we committed to restoring 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.”

Clive Bowen, founder and director of UK-based Apex Circuit Design, emphasized that the upgrades would enhance the already high standards of the circuit, meeting modern Grade 1 requirements with minimal engineering changes.

With a three-year timeline for the upgrades, there is potential for Kyalami to return to the F1 calendar as early as 2028 or 2029. However, no guarantees have been made regarding South Africa's inclusion on the calendar, whether through Kyalami or a potential street race in Cape Town.

South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has expressed commitment to realizing the dream of an African Grand Prix, assuring fans that efforts are underway to make this a reality. Following a demonstration run at Kyalami by former F1 driver David Coulthard, who noted the track’s potential for F1 racing, the anticipation for a return of Formula 1 to South African soil continues to grow.

As the countdown begins for the proposed upgrades, the motorsport community eagerly awaits the outcome of South Africa's bid to reclaim its place in the Formula 1 spotlight.