The iconic Kyalami Circuit in South Africa is one step closer to hosting Formula 1 races again after the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) approved its upgrade plans to achieve Grade 1 status. This milestone could mark the return of F1 to the African continent for the first time since 1993.

Kyalami's Road to F1

Kyalami, located north of Johannesburg, last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993. Since then, the circuit has been classified as Grade 2 by the FIA, making it ineligible for F1 events in its current state. However, with the recent approval of upgrade plans developed in collaboration with Apex Circuit Designs, the venue is on track to meet the stringent safety and infrastructure standards required for F1.

What’s Changing?

The upgrade plans focus on enhancing key aspects of the circuit, including:

• Run-off areas for improved safety
• Advanced barrier systems and debris fencing
• Modernized kerbs and drainage systems

Notably, the circuit’s layout will remain unchanged, preserving its historic character while meeting modern F1 standards.

A Defining Moment for African Motorsport

Circuit owner Toby Venter described the FIA’s approval as a "defining moment" for South African motorsport. "When we acquired Kyalami in 2014, we made a commitment to restore it, not just as a world-class venue, but as a beacon for motorsport across the African continent," he said.

Competing for a Spot on the F1 Calendar

Kyalami is among three African venues vying to host F1 races, alongside a proposed street circuit in Cape Town and a yet-to-be-built project near Kigali, Rwanda. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has emphasized the sport’s commitment to adding Africa to its calendar, stating, "We are missing one continent, and we want to connect also to that."

Challenges Ahead

While the upgrades are a significant step forward, Kyalami’s return to F1 is not guaranteed. The circuit’s selection as a host venue depends on its inclusion in the F1 calendar, which remains highly competitive. Other countries, such as Thailand, are also pushing to join F1’s packed schedule.

A Bold New Chapter

"Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami," Venter declared. "We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil." With the FIA’s approval in hand, Kyalami is poised to reclaim its place on the global motorsport stage.