Morocco Unveils Ambitious £887 Million Initiative to Host Africa's First Formula 1 Race

In a bold move to secure a place in the Formula 1 calendar, Morocco has announced a stunning £887 million ($1.2 billion) plan to host a grand prix near the picturesque coastal city of Tangier. This ambitious proposal positions Morocco as a key contender in the race to bring F1 back to Africa, a continent that has not seen a grand prix since the 1993 South African GP.

While South Africa and Rwanda have also expressed interest in hosting F1 races—potentially as early as 2027—Morocco's mega-project aims to create a luxurious racing destination. The plan includes a Grade 1 circuit designed for F1 and MotoGP, along with a theme park, shopping mall, and marina, all situated just 20 kilometers south of Tangier.

Leading the initiative is Eric Boullier, former team principal of McLaren and Lotus, who envisions this project as a “mini-Abu Dhabi,” emphasizing the creation of an independent tourism ecosystem that will significantly benefit the region. “We conducted a feasibility study in Tangier and found the selected site met all criteria for hosting F1 racing,” Boullier stated. “This project is not just about the race; it’s about developing a strategic tourism hub that aligns with F1's goals in Africa.”

With $800 million already secured in private investment, the project awaits high-level approvals to proceed. Boullier, who previously managed the French Grand Prix, is confident that a successful F1 event in Morocco would elevate the sport's presence on the continent, which has long been overlooked in the F1 calendar.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has reiterated the importance of including Africa in the racing series, while Lewis Hamilton has voiced his support for hosting a race on the continent, highlighting the growing demand for F1 in new markets. If successful, Morocco's initiative could mark a historic return of Formula 1 to Africa, igniting excitement among fans and fostering regional tourism.