Kyalami cleared for FIA Grade 1 upgrades boosting F1 return

South Africa’s historic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has taken a major step toward potentially hosting Formula 1 again, after receiving approval from the FIA to upgrade to Grade 1 status – the certification required for any venue wishing to stage an F1 Grand Prix.

Following an extensive submission outlining proposed upgrades to its infrastructure, the FIA has now formally accepted the design plans, granting Kyalami a three-year window to complete the work necessary to meet top-tier standards.

The planned improvements will not alter the layout of the iconic circuit, which first hosted Formula 1 in 1967 and last featured on the calendar in 1993.

Instead, the focus will be on modernizing key safety features to align with current F1 requirements – including enhancements to run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, curbing, and drainage.

Clive Bowen of Apex Circuit Design described the plans as a “light touch,” noting that work will be scheduled around existing events to minimize disruption.

“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport,” commented Kyalami 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.

Venter emphasized the symbolic importance of the milestone and the readiness of the circuit to bring top-tier motorsport back to African soil.

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

Long Road Ahead for F1’s African Return

Although the FIA’s approval is a critical milestone, hosting an F1 Grand Prix requires much more than certification. Negotiations between Formula 1 and the Kyalami circuit have been ongoing for several years, but no agreement has yet been reached.

The series has made no secret of its desire to bring a race back to Africa – the only continent not currently represented on the F1 calendar – with other potential projects in Cape Town and Rwanda also reportedly in the mix.

Still, no single bid has emerged as a frontrunner, and a confirmed event will likely hinge on securing the right commercial and logistical agreements.

For now, Kyalami’s path to a potential Grand Prix return is clearer than it’s been in decades — with FIA approval in hand and South Africa’s racing community watching closely.

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