Lewis Hamilton and F1 are aligned on Africa return – but these obstacles must be overcome
Formula One is eyeing a return to Africa, a sentiment echoed by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. However, after an absence of 31 years, the sport faces challenges in finding a suitable path back to the continent. The last F1 race on African soil took place in 1993 at Kyalami, South Africa, won by Alain Prost for Williams. The absence of Africa from F1’s calendar raises questions about the inclusivity of a ‘World Championship’ that does not encompass all continents.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has expressed a keen interest in adding an African race to the schedule, with initial discussions held with officials from Rwanda. While Rwanda is a potential option, South Africa has also been in the spotlight for a possible return to the F1 calendar. Talks with South Africa had been ongoing, with the Kyalami Circuit receiving attention. However, events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and disagreements over government support have complicated South Africa’s bid to host an F1 race.
Former F1 world champion Jody Scheckter shed light on the challenges faced, attributing the setback to internal conflicts and greed among circuit officials. Despite hurdles, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Art and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, remains optimistic about F1 returning to the country and is actively working towards making it a reality. The decision between Cape Town and Johannesburg as potential race locations adds another layer of complexity to the discussions.
Rwanda has emerged as a surprising contender for hosting an F1 race, with talks underway between F1 officials and representatives of the Rwandan government. The country’s investments in sports and infrastructure, coupled with its ambitions to become a hub for motorsport, have positioned Rwanda as a potential candidate for staging an F1 event. Plans for a new racetrack outside Kigali are being considered, marking a significant step towards bringing F1 to Rwanda.
In addition to South Africa and Rwanda, speculation has arisen about Uganda and Morocco as potential hosts for F1 races. While Uganda has hinted at plans for a new racetrack, details remain scarce. Morocco, which previously hosted the Moroccan Grand Prix in the late ’50s, is not currently in discussions for an F1 return. The emergence of new tracks and venues in Africa signifies growing interest in expanding F1’s footprint on the continent.
As F1 navigates negotiations with potential African hosts, considerations regarding the current race calendar come into play. With contracts for several races set to expire after 2025, the possibility of introducing new races in Africa raises questions about the future composition of the F1 calendar. The financial viability of hosting an F1 event, coupled with logistical and infrastructural requirements, will shape decisions regarding the addition of African races.
Overall, a return to Africa for F1 represents a significant milestone for the sport’s global reach and inclusivity. While challenges exist in identifying suitable venues and overcoming logistical hurdles, the prospect of hosting F1 races in Africa signifies a new chapter in the sport’s history. Whether it’s South Africa, Rwanda, or other African countries, the enthusiasm for F1’s return to the continent signals a promising future for motorsport in Africa.