The roar of Formula 1 could soon echo across African soil once more… Kyalami has received FIA approval for a Grade 1 upgrade, putting South Africa firmly in the race to host a Grand Prix again.
Johannesburg, South Africa (18 June 2025) – There’s a buzz roaring through the country louder than any engine ever heard at Kyalami. For motorsport fans and proud South Africans alike, it’s the kind of news that feels like winning pole position: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has officially received FIA approval to begin upgrades to reach Grade 1 status, the highest level needed to host Formula 1.
Constructed back in 1961, the historic Kyalami track has always been more than just tarmac and turns. It’s been the beating heart of motorsport in Southern Africa, a sun-soaked destination where legendary drivers once raced while Europe braced through winter. For decades, it hosted the Kyalami 9-Hour, saw the thrills of MotoGP and was the proud home to 21 F1 Grand Prix races. Now, it’s gearing up to reclaim its place on the global motorsport map.
And the best part is it’s officially been greenlit to do so.
The Federation International de l’Automobile (FIA) has confirmed that it has accepted final design proposals for Kyalami to become an FIA Grade 1 circuit, the only one in Africa capable of hosting Formula 1.
“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” said circuit owner Toby Venter.
“When we acquired Kyalami in 2014, we made a commitment to restore it not just as a world-class venue, but as a beacon for motorsport across the African continent. The FIA’s acceptance of our Grade 1 design is a major step forward in that journey.”
And while the news is thrilling enough, the work ahead is just as exciting. The planned upgrades, described as a “light-touch” improvement by Apex Circuit Design founder Clive Bowen, won’t alter the existing layout. Instead, they’ll enhance vital safety features like run-off areas, barriers, fencing, kerbs and drainage. It’s about refining what’s already great to meet modern F1 standards.
“This is a light-touch upgrade in engineering terms, but one that enhances the already excellent circuit standards to meet modern Grade 1 requirements,” Bowen explained.
The upgrades will be carried out over the next three years in stages that won’t interfere with the venue’s current commercial success. From exhibitions and lifestyle events to corporate gatherings, the Kyalami precinct has proven itself as a year-round destination… and that’s not about to change.
Related Story
If all goes to plan and the upgrades align with South Africa securing a spot on the Formula 1 calendar, we could soon see the return of Grand Prix racing to Mzansi.
The announcement was made at a press conference at Kyalami, where Venter and Bowen shared their five-year journey to this point. Apex, known for designing the Miami F1 circuit, brings global expertise into a proudly local dream.
“Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami. We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil,” concluded Venter.
by 