Kyalami charges toward F1 return with FIA approval

The upgrades, once completed, would make Kyalami eligible to host grands prix, marking a significant step toward reviving F1 on the continent for the first time since 1993.

Located north of Johannesburg, Kyalami last welcomed F1 in 1993, when Alain Prost triumphed for Williams.

Currently classified as a Grade 2 venue by the FIA, Kyalami's owners, in collaboration with UK-based Apex Circuit Designs, have outlined enhancements to meet the stringent Grade 1 requirements. These include improved run-off areas, advanced barrier systems, upgraded debris fencing, revised kerbs, and enhanced drainage, all while preserving the circuit's iconic 4.529-kilometer layout.

Kyalami's owners emphasized that the upgrades would proceed once South Africa secures a place on the F1 calendar and Kyalami is confirmed as the preferred venue. "This is a defining moment for South African motorsport," said circuit owner Toby Venter. "When we acquired Kyalami in 2014, we committed to restoring it as a world-class venue and a beacon for motorsport across Africa.

"The FIA's approval of our Grade 1 design is a major milestone in that journey."

The circuit faces competition from two other African projects: a proposed street circuit in Cape Town and a new track near Kigali, Rwanda. Rwanda's bid, backed by President Paul Kagame and announced at the FIA's 2024 gala in Kigali, has encountered challenges due to regional conflicts involving Rwandan-backed rebels in eastern Congo. In February 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo called for F1 to halt negotiations with Rwanda, complicating the bid.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has reiterated the sport's commitment to returning to Africa. Speaking at the Monaco Grand Prix in May 2025, he said, "We are missing one continent, and we want to connect to that. It's about finding the right plan, and we hope to provide updates soon."

However, Kyalami's owners face external competition, with Thailand also vying for a slot on F1's increasingly crowded calendar, which already spans 24 races in 2025.

Recent posts on X reflect strong fan enthusiasm for Kyalami's potential return, with many praising its challenging layout and rich history. Some users expressed concerns about the logistical and political hurdles facing African bids, particularly Rwanda's, but Kyalami's concrete progress has sparked optimism among motorsport enthusiasts.

Venter remains steadfast in his vision. "We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil," he said. "Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami."

As the F1 season accelerates toward the Austrian Grand Prix on June 29, 2025, at the 4.318-kilometer Red Bull Ring, Kyalami's owners are gearing up for a high-stakes race to secure their place on the global stage.