Government backing boosts Kyalami’s 2027 F1 hopes

Formula 1 is edging closer to a long-awaited return to Africa, with South Africa’s government now backing a plan for Kyalami to rejoin the calendar in 2027.

Minister Kumbudzo Ntshaweni confirmed the cabinet had approved the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture’s application to bring a grand prix back to the historic circuit north of Johannesburg.

“South Africa will seek to host Formula 1 at Kyalami in 2027,” she said. “The bid is fully funded by the South African private sector and, if successful, will contribute to job creation and economic development.”

The proposal includes a guaranteed three-year contract through 2029. Kyalami, which last staged Formula 1 in 1993, is currently being upgraded to FIA Grade 1 status, with the work due for completion next year.

While South Africa moves closer to rejoining the world championship, Formula 1 also confirmed that one of its most iconic fixtures is safe for the long term, with Monaco’s contract now running until 2035.

F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali called the Principality’s race an “iconic” event with a “unique vibe,” while Prince Albert II welcomed the extension as proof of Monaco’s “unique place in the international motorsport landscape.”

The new agreement adds four more years to the previous deal, which was due to expire in 2031, securing the glamour of Monte Carlo’s streets as part of Formula 1 for another decade.