Formula One Considers African Grand Prix Return: South Africa and Rwanda as Main Contenders
Formula One is contemplating a return to Africa with South Africa and Rwanda as top bidders for the Grand Prix. South Africa aims to host the event with support from Lewis Hamilton, intending for the race to occur in 2027. The competing venues are the Kyalami track and a Cape Town street circuit. Rwanda also poses a strong challenge in this endeavor, although regional conflicts may complicate their bid.
Formula One is considering reviving the Grand Prix in Africa, with South Africa and Rwanda as the leading contenders. South Africa aims to host the event after a 30-year hiatus since the last race took place in 1993, with support from Lewis Hamilton, who advocates for an African Grand Prix. The potential venues include Cape Town’s street circuit and the Kyalami race track near Johannesburg. A decision from the committee established by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is anticipated in the third quarter of this year, signaling optimism for the Grand Prix’s return in 2027.
The historic Kyalami circuit, known for its challenging layout, has previously hosted iconic races and drivers. Its last Formula One event occurred just before the country’s significant democratic elections in 1994. Hamilton emphasized the necessity of an African race, pointing out that it would not be fair to expand F1’s presence elsewhere while ignoring Africa. Experts believe that resuming races in South Africa would mark an important moment for the sport post-apartheid.
Beyond South Africa, Rwanda is vying for the opportunity to host the prestigious event, with a proposed street circuit in Cape Town. The Cape Town route, which previously accommodated a Formula E race in 2023, features stunning views and a design that some claim would surpass Monaco. While Rwanda’s proposal seems strong, their involvement in regional conflicts may complicate their bid. The South African sports minister argued against limiting the continent to one Grand Prix, highlighting Africa’s growing potential in the sport.
In addition to South Africa and Rwanda, Morocco has expressed interest in hosting Formula One. The global landscape of F1 is expanding, allowing for potentially multiple races on the continent. The return to African soil is viewed not just as advantageous for F1 but also as a strategic benefit for the host countries in international relations and sports diplomacy.
In summary, South Africa and Rwanda are leading bids to host the Formula One Grand Prix, marking a significant potential return to the continent after three decades. South Africa’s Kyalami circuit and Cape Town’s proposed street race are competing for the spotlight. Despite challenges, the optimism from officials suggests that F1 is keen on expanding its footprint in Africa, which could enhance the region’s international profile in motorsport.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
