MOTOR RACING NEWS - Cape Town has officially thrown its hat into the running for a Formula 1 Grand Prix in South Africa with what could likely be the inclusion of a street circuit, akin to that of Formula E hosted there in 2023.
Common knowledge by now, South Africa is preparing to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the country sooner rather than later.
Minister Gayton McKenzie has moved this project along with the bidding phase now open and Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) has submitted its bid to the National Bid Steering Committee (BSC).
The proposal is a 5.7km street circuit weaving around the DHL Stadium in Green Point which is the same venue that hosted the Formula E spectacle in 2023.
The proposed circuit aligns with Formula 1’s increasing focus on city-based races, following successful models like Monaco, Singapore, and Miami.
CTGPSA emphasises the global appeal of such iconic urban venues. Its experience in hosting the Formula E race in 2023 within the Green Point Sport Tourism Precinct provides a solid foundation for managing a larger-scale F1 event.
The bid also benefits from collaboration with established F1 Circuit Designers & Consultants.
The dream of a South African Grand Prix has been simmering for years, with CTGPSA diligently engaging with government officials to navigate the complex approval process.
While the bid’s submission is a major milestone, securing final government endorsement remains critical.
The success of Cape Town’s Grand Prix bid may depend on effectively showcasing the economic advantages and tourism growth it could generate for the region.
Beyond its immediate impact, hosting a Grand Prix could mark the resurgence of motorsport in Africa, potentially paving the way for additional races on the continent.
While competition from other candidate cities remains a factor, Cape Town’s well-developed infrastructure, scenic setting, and proven track record in hosting major sporting events position it as a compelling choice.
In the coming months, the BSC will assess the bid while Formula 1 management deliberates its options – an outcome that could signal a new chapter for South African motorsport.
Could the City of Cape Town be a viable alternative to the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg?
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
