F1 ‘definitely coming’ to South Africa amidst Lewis Hamilton’s continued efforts
South Africa's Minister of Sport has hinted about Formula 1's return to the country following Lewis Hamilton's continued efforts.
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Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO)
Formula 1 has a rich history and one of its notable chapters remains its time in South Africa. The country hosted its first Grand Prix in 1962 at the East London circuit, marking a significant moment in F1’s expansion into new territories.
Despite the initial success, the South African GP faced challenges, including political issues and safety concerns, leading to its discontinuation after 1985. However, the legacy of F1 in South Africa remains a topic of interest.
Lewis Hamilton has expressed his continued support for the return of South African GP and South Africa’s Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie has talked about it. McKenzie recently expressed strong optimism about Formula 1’s potential return to the country.
He stated that F1 authorities have shown interest in hosting the event and that the ministry is prepared to meet their needs. The South African GP originally stopped in 1985 due to political issues but it made a comeback in 1992. However, the last race there took place in 1993, where Alain Prost celebrated victory.
I can tell you this, F1 is definitely coming. F1 told us they’re keen to come, they told us what they’ll need to come, and we are going to give them what they need to come.There’s still a big fight at the moment. Is it Cape Town, or is it Joburg? That decision has not been taken.
Gayton McKenzie told Motorsport
South Africa’s top potential Grand Prix locations are the Kyalami Circuit in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Kyalami has a rich F1 history and a challenging layout. While Cape Town, after hosting Formula E in 2023, offers stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere. McKenzie noted that the decision between these locations remains undecided, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Lewis Hamilton has been vocal about wanting Formula 1 to return to South Africa. He emphasized the importance of bringing the sport back to the continent, as it’s the only one that currently doesn’t host a Grand Prix.
Former Red Bull driver David Coulthard takes RB7 to Johannesburg, South Africa
Red Bull has never competed in South Africa, as the team entered F1 after the last event in 1993. However, Sebastian Vettel, a former Red Bull driver, won the Race of Champions Nations Cup in Durban alongside Michael Schumacher.
Recently, former Red Bull David Coulthard took the RB7 (Sebastian Vettel’s 2011 championship-winning car) there for a show run. Coulthard performed donuts on South African streets during Formula 1’s summer break, delighting fans with the spectacle.
No rest for the weary, or for Red Bull during the autumn break ?
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 7, 2024
DC takes the legendary RB7 for a spin on the streets of South Africa ???
?: @redbullracing#F1 pic.twitter.com/Pv7kZDl6tY
The 2024 season has six races left, with the next one in Austin on October 21. Until then, F1 teams are taking an unofficial mini-break to enhance car performance and develop strategies to challenge their rivals.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)