South Africa’s hopes of reviving its long-dormant Formula One legacy have taken a significant step forward. The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has received the green light from the FIA for its proposed upgrade plans, which are required to host a race at the highest level of motorsport. But while motorsport fans may be buzzing, Venter has tempered the excitement, pointing to a lack of action from the South African government.
FIA Approval Secured, But Key Partnership Missing
On Wednesday, Venter confirmed that the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has approved the necessary enhancements for Kyalami to meet Formula One standards. The circuit now has a three-year window to complete the upgrades and reach Grade 1 status – a prerequisite for hosting F1 events.
The estimated cost of the improvements lies between R90 million and R180 million. Venter assured the public that the circuit itself would fund the upgrade, which is expected to take just three months once started. He expressed confidence that work could wrap up before the end of the year.
Despite this, Venter remained cautious about predicting a return date for F1 in South Africa.
“The government needs to engage directly with Formula One, like other countries have done. That hasn’t happened yet,” he said.
Steering Committee Not Enough
A Bid Steering Committee, appointed by Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, is currently reviewing South Africa’s potential to host a Grand Prix. However, Venter emphasised that this committee alone is not sufficient.
“It’s great that the committee is doing its work, but ultimately the government needs to go beyond that. Globally, we’ve seen governments enter memoranda of understanding with F1 and pay deposits to secure hosting rights. South Africa hasn’t taken that step yet.”
Venter’s frustration lies in the fact that despite Kyalami’s readiness, the government’s failure to engage with Formula One at the executive level could delay or derail the dream.
Cape Town and Wakanda City Also in the Running
While Kyalami leads the local charge, it isn’t the only player. Competing bids from Cape Town and the proposed Wakanda Smart City are in consideration, and even Rwanda has expressed interest in bringing Formula One back to African soil.
Still, Venter is convinced that Kyalami remains Africa’s most credible candidate.
“No other circuit on the continent carries the history or readiness of Kyalami,” he said. “We’ve hosted 21 Grands Prix between 1967 and 1993. Champions like Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Jim Clark, and South Africa’s Jody Scheckter have all won here.”
Minimal Upgrades Required
Kyalami underwent a major transformation after Venter acquired it in 2014, earning the track a Grade 2 status. Now, only a few technical alterations are needed to push it to Grade 1.
Clive Bowden, director of UK-based Apex Circuit Design – the firm tasked with the upgrade blueprints – confirmed that changes are minor.
“From an engineering standpoint, it’s doable in three months. Turn 2 and Turn 13 need more run-off space, and corners like 5, 6, 7, and 10 require adjustments to gravel traps and curbs.”
Bowden also noted that there are future considerations for hosting MotoGP, although that’s not currently on the table.
2026 F1 Calendar Already Set – Earliest Return in 2027
Despite the progress, South Africa does not feature on the official Formula One calendar for 2026. The earliest fans can realistically expect the spectacle to return is 2027 – assuming the government steps up soon.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture was approached for comment on its engagement with the FIA. Any response received will be published when available.
Until then, the race to bring Formula One back to South African soil remains stalled on the grid — not by a lack of infrastructure or passion, but by a lack of political will.
Related article: 2026 Formula 1 Calendar Revealed: South Africa Excluded from the Races
