South Africa ramps up F1 race bid: Is it too late for Hamilton, though?

Formula 1 is edging closer to a return to South Africa after Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie gave a major update in Parliament. The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is now expected to receive FIA Grade 1 certification within six months—far ahead of the initial three-year window. But is it soon enough for Lewis Hamilton?

South African government expects Kyalami to be FIA grade 1 soon: Is it too late for Hamilton?

One of the most vocal supporters of an African Grand Prix has been seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton. The Briton has long advocated for a race on the continent, highlighting the significance it would hold both culturally and historically. But with his Ferrari contract set to expire in 2026, Hamilton may not get the chance to race in Africa if the Grand Prix doesn't arrive in time.

British firm Apex Circuit Design—known for the Miami GP layout—has already been paid and is leading the Kyalami upgrade. The FIA approved the proposed works in June, with the project cost estimated between R90–180 million. Circuit owner Toby Venter, who had previously voiced concerns about government funding, pledged to cover the cost himself as a “patriotic duty.”

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Kyalami leads, but rivals linger

Kyalami, last seen on the F1 calendar in 1993, remains the front-runner. However, Cape Town, Wakanda Smart City, and even Rwanda have shown interest in hosting.

“It can’t be a world championship if it skips an entire continent,” McKenzie added. In an F1 era expanding to new territories, a nation that hosted 21 Grands Prix—won by legends like Lauda, Prost, and Scheckter—deserves its place back on the grid.