With the rising popularity of Formula 1, the demand for hosting a Grand Prix is higher than ever. Numerous countries are lining up for the opportunity to organize a race. In South Africa, where the last Grand Prix was held in 1993, there is a strong belief that a comeback is imminent. Meanwhile, South Korea is also vying for a spot on the calendar.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Art and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, believes that Formula 1 will soon return to the African continent. “I can tell you this: South Africa will definitely have its own GP,” he said. “Formula 1 has let us know that they want to come to our country and we are ready to facilitate that.” McKenzie is still undecided whether the race will take place in Cape Town or Johannesburg. “That is currently being fought over,” he concluded.
Formula 1 has traveled to South Africa twenty times in the past. The Kyalami circuit near Johannesburg was always the venue for these Grand Prix. During the last edition in 1993, Alain Prost took the win. Since then, the premier class has not visited the African continent.
South Korea
South Korea also wants to host its own GP, preferably as early as 2026. Plans are in place for a race through the streets of Incheon. Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok approached the Formula 1 management during the GP of Japan. “Incheon is the best place to host Formula 1,” he said. “Large-scale discussions will take place soon.” Korea has been the venue for a Grand Prix four times before. Between 2010 and 2013, races were held at the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam.
The question is whether there is enough room on the calendar for GPs in both South Africa and South Korea. China, Belgium, the Netherlands, Mexico, Monaco, and the two Italian races have not yet signed a contract for 2025. With the arrival of Madrid, one of these host countries is at risk of losing their spot on the calendar, assuming the number of twenty-four events is maintained.
