Kyalami improvements get FIA approval to reach F1 status

South Africa's Kyalami circuit has had improvement works approved by the FIA that would grant the venue Grade 1 status, allowing it to host Formula 1 races in future.

The circuit is currently FIA Grade 2, meaning it doesn’t hold the required license for an F1 track, but it submitted plans for upgrades that would bring it up to the required standard. The FIA has now approved those designs, giving Kyalami three years to complete the work in order to achieve Grade 1 status.

“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” Kyalami circuit owner Toby Venter said. “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.

“Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami. We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil.”

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The works do not include any changes to the track layout, but focuses on enhancing run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, curbs and drainage. Described as “light touch” by Apex Circuit Design director Clive Bowen, the work will initially take place around existing commitments to ensure minimal disruption.

The circuit admits that there are certain upgrades that will only be made if a grand prix is awarded to Kyalami. Talks with Formula 1 about bringing the South African Grand Prix back to the venue have been taking place in recent years.

While Grade 1 status is an important step to allow the track to host F1, RACER understands there is still a long way to go for an agreement to be reached to race in Africa. Other interested parties include potential projects in Cape Town and Rwanda, but there has been no single bid that has clearly emerged as a frontrunner with the required business plan so far.