Will South Africa ever host the F1 Grand Prix again?
This news devastated Africans and other global fans and participants who love to tour South Africa due to its perfect weather condition, beautiful sceneries, and distinctive culture.
After missing on the 2023 calendar, F1 enthusiasts are desperate to know if South Africa will host this event in 2024. The uncertainty is building up since most people are unaware of what actually hindered South Africa from being an F1 host in 2023. In this article, we explore why South Africa couldn’t host the F1 Championships in 2023 and if it can play the host in 2024.
Grade 1 Certification for the Circuit
The last time South Africa hosted the F1 Grand Prix was in 1993. Within these 30 years, the rules and policies of the F1 Championships have changed. Before a circuit is approved for the FIA competition, it must have a Grade 1 certification. Early this year, the management of Kyalami reported that they lacked a plan to get this certification. Apart from that, the circuit hadn’t been modified as recommended by the organisers.
The essential modifications included replacing gravel bins with asphalt, adjustments to accommodate more spectators, raising curbs to make them F1-friendly, and installing tech-pro barriers in some corners. The unfitness of Kyalami to host F1 competitions denied South Africans the best live betting opportunities. South Africa has a flourishing online betting industry with many incredible betting sites. Despite losing a chance to host the 2023 F1 competition, SA bettors can continue placing bets on F1 Grand Prix online via reputable sportsbooks.
Funding Problems for Kyalami
The failure to modify Kyalami came as a result of funding problems. Since the circuit is privately owned, it was difficult for the government to step in to fund the renovations. According to government officials, reports weren’t presented to determine the cost of upgrades needed for Kyalami to achieve an F1 status. Another issue was the government’s failure to give guarantees for funding because it didn’t receive application bids for F1 Grand Prix. The miscommunication between the F1 stakeholders in South Africa and the government caused the funding issue.
A lack of government interest
Any failure or success is always accredited to the leadership. In the eyes of many fans, the South African Government is entirely responsible for failing to secure a 2023 F1 Grand Prix spot. Although the media and other stakeholders asked many questions regarding this event, the government appeared disinterested. It never took time to address or act on the questions as expected.
Moreover, the government never assessed the economic impact of the F1 Grand Prix on the country and failed to research the interest of the public regarding this event. As a result, private promoters were overwhelmed with the bureaucratic requirements, and this eventually led to South Africa losing the bid to host the event in 2023.
Final thought
Formula 1 Grand Prix is a great event with a global following. Although South Africa never got a spot for the 2023 competitions, all hope is not lost. If the government takes responsibility for providing the essential resources required for F1 Grand Prix events, South Africa will have a chance in 2024. The modifications and renovations of Kyalami can also be carried out effortlessly with the corporation between its management and the government in preparation for future F1 events.
