SA’S BID FOR F1 APPROVED
The South African government has approved the bid to host the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix for three years starting in 2027.
The Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, announced the news on Friday at a media briefing.
“The bid is fully financially supported by the reputable South African private sector and, if successful, will contribute to job creation and economic development.
“The mere granting of an opportunity for South Africa to bid for the prestigious Formula One Grand Prix is an affirmation of South Africa as an important world actor and confidence in the country,” Ntshavheni said.
Kyalami recently got approval from the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) for proposed upgrades.
Kyalami owner Toby Venter said he’s confident that the upgrades, which are estimated to be between R90 million and R180 million, will be completed in three months, before the end of the year.
Kyalami, which has hosted 21 Grands Prix from 1967 to 1993, is the favourite to win. Other contenders are believed to be the City of Cape Town and Wakanda Smart City.
Rwanda is the only other African country which has also expressed its intention of bidding.
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