Fri Mar 14 11:45:56 UTC 2025: ## Formula 1 Eyes African Return After 32-Year Absence: South Africa Leads the Charge, but Rwanda Poised to Compete

**JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA** – After a 32-year hiatus, Formula 1 is eyeing a return to the African continent, with South Africa emerging as a frontrunner. A bidding process is underway between two South African locations: the historic Kyalami circuit near Johannesburg and a proposed street circuit in Cape Town. A committee chaired by South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie will select the winning bid by the third quarter of 2024, with the race slated for 2027. Minister McKenzie expressed unwavering confidence in securing the Grand Prix, emphasizing that the location is secondary to bringing the event to South Africa.

The Kyalami circuit, which hosted legendary drivers in the past, requires upgrades to meet F1 standards. Conversely, the proposed Cape Town street circuit, which recently hosted a Formula E race, boasts a visually stunning location near the city’s 2010 World Cup stadium and Lion’s Head mountain. Its proponents claim it would surpass even the Monaco Grand Prix in spectacle.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has publicly supported an African Grand Prix, stating that the continent shouldn’t be overlooked in F1’s global expansion. Experts agree that an African Grand Prix aligns with Formula 1’s strategy to expand its reach across all continents. High organizational costs are not seen as a major obstacle, as the strategic benefits for host nations often outweigh the financial considerations.

However, South Africa faces stiff competition from Rwanda, which has been actively pursuing an F1 Grand Prix. President Paul Kagame’s meeting with Formula 1’s governing body and Liberty Media in Singapore last year signals Rwanda’s serious intent. With existing sponsorships of major European football clubs and the NBA, Rwanda possesses significant resources to support a bid. Morocco also holds long-standing ambitions to host a race. The possibility of multiple African Grand Prix events remains open, although the potential involvement of Rwanda in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo could hinder its bid. This conflict has already prompted calls for the withdrawal of the 2024 Road World Cycling Championships from Kigali.

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