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The push to return Formula 1 to African soil is accelerating

Prince Mathias 5 months ago 3 min read

An aerial view showcasing the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. Photo courtesy: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit

Multiple African nations are actively pursuing Formula 1 hosting rights, from South Africa’s upgraded Kyalami circuit to Morocco’s high-tech plans in Tangier. With political backing and private capital in play, the question is no longer if F1 will return to Africa, but who will bring it back first.

SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | The campaign to bring Formula 1 back to Africa is intensifying, with multiple countries accelerating efforts to meet hosting standards.

On June 18, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) approved final design plans to upgrade South Africa’s Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to Grade 1 status. This designation is a prerequisite for any venue hoping to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix.

According to a press release from Kyalami, the planned upgrades do not require changes to the 4.522-kilometre layout, which was last revamped in 2016. Instead, the improvements will focus on safety-related aspects such as run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, kerbs and drainage.

“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” said Toby Venter, the circuit owner. “We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil.”

The approval gives Kyalami a three-year window to complete the upgrades. Final hosting rights remain contingent on South Africa being selected for the F1 calendar.

UK-based Apex Circuit Design, the same firm that designed the Miami Grand Prix circuit, developed the upgrade plans.

According to Clive Bowen, the founder of Apex, the changes needed are “a light-touch upgrade in engineering terms” that would bring the circuit up to modern standards.

Only two African countries have ever hosted an F1 race: South Africa and Morocco.

Kyalami last hosted a Formula 1 race in 1993. It remains the only African circuit with a legacy of 21 previous Grand Prix events.

In 2023, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, expressed strong support for the return of Formula 1. “We believe South Africa is ready, both in terms of infrastructure and audience. Kyalami is a venue with historical significance,” he told local media at the time.

South Africa has played a significant role in F1 from a continental standpoint, having produced the largest number of F1 drivers from the region. Since 1979, South African national, Jody Scheckter, remains Africa’s only title winner of the World Championship.

From an infrastructural and historical standpoint, South Africa’s hosting bid is the most advanced. However, Morocco is also emerging as a serious contender.

In May 2025, Morocco unveiled a US$1.2 billion plan to build a new motorsport complex near Tangier. The project, known as the Tangier International Circuit, is being developed by local group Marita Group in collaboration with Italian firm Studio Dromo.

According to the circuit website, the complex will include an FIA Grade 1 circuit, a five-star hotel, a motorsport museum, a karting track and surrounding urban developments. The proposed location lies near the Tangier Med port, which is the largest cargo port in Africa.