The missing continent
South Africa’s pursuit of Formula 1 continues. The African nation—along with Rwanda, one of the most interested in hosting a Grand Prix in recent years, aiming to bring the sport back to a continent absent from the calendar since 1993—has extended the deadline to March 18, 2025, for the submission of Requests for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) to host an F1 race.
The announcement came directly from Minister Gayton McKenzie, who has been actively working to bring South Africa back into the world championship calendar. The purpose of this extension is to give local organizers more time to submit bids, from which an official candidate will be selected and presented to F1 leadership.
More options on the table
“Hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix would boost our economy, tourism, and development while showcasing South Africa as one of the world’s top sporting destinations,” McKenzie stated. “This extension ensures that bidders have the necessary time to prepare outstanding proposals.”
Among the potential venues under consideration is not only the historic Kyalami circuit but also the possibility of a street race in Cape Town. With at least another month and a half for interested parties to prepare a viable proposal, South Africa’s dream of returning to the F1 calendar remains very much alive.
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