South Africa's dreams of hosting a Formula 1 race took a bold step forward as the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit secured approval for major upgrades that would make it the continent's only track eligible for F1.
The announcement has ignited excitement within motorsport circles across the country and reignited a long-standing ambition to return Africa to the F1 calendar. But not everyone is celebrating.
Toby Venter, owner of the Kyalami circuit and Porsche South Africa boss, confirmed that between 5 and 10 million will be poured into renovations over the next three years. The investment is aimed at securing FIA Grade 1 compliance, the green light needed to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The circuit currently holds a Grade 2 license, which disqualifies it from hosting the top-tier racing series.
'When we took over in 2014, we wanted to restore Kyalami not just for South Africa but as a flagship for motorsport on the entire continent,' said Venter. 'The FIA's approval of our Grade 1 layout is a major milestone.'
The upgrades are expected to cost between R100 million and R180 million and will be privately funded, as per Daily News . This was confirmed by Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who clarified that the government would not be footing the bill.