
South Africa’s Formula 1 Bid Steering Committee (BSC) has officially released the Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI), inviting interested parties to submit their bids to host a Formula 1 (F1) race in 2026/27 and beyond.
The 37-page document outlines the minimum requirements and expectations for parties keen on hosting the pinnacle of motorsport on local soil.
This ensures a transparent, competitive, and compliant process aligned with F1’s global standards, as per the BSC.
“This marks an exciting step in our journey to bring Formula 1 to South Africa,” said Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
“The release of the RFEOI demonstrates our commitment to an open, inclusive and competitive process, showcasing South Africa’s ability to host a world-class motorsport event and our broader ambitions for economic growth and global recognition.”
The Ministry encourages all eligible and interested stakeholders to engage with the RFEOI and bid for this opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s potential hosting of this prestigious event.
The deadline for submissions is 31 January 2025.
Known contenders
At this point in time, three known contenders are vying to host the return of F1 to South Africa comprising the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, the City of Cape Town, and the Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) association.
In November 2024, the owners of Kyalami committed to upgrading the circuit to F1 standards, setting aside a rumoured $10 million (R186 million) budget for the endeavour.
The Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture himself has also said that a purpose-built track is currently being constructed in Cape Town adjacent to the upcoming Fisantekraal airport specifically to host F1.
In the latest turn of events, CTGPSA threw its hat into the ring, too, proposing a high-octane street race in the Mother City backed by industry veterans.
It will inevitably be up to the BSC to decide which of these contenders, or perhaps a new one, is awarded the honours.
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