How the F1 calendar works: When is the earliest South Africa could host a Grand Prix race?
The Kyalami Grand Prix circuit’s upgrades to FIA Grade 1 standards are underway, but hosting an F1 race in South Africa hinges on fitting into the already packed schedule for the next few years, despite the venue’s readiness and growing excitement for its return since 1993. Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
Although the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit has already begun a costly process to upgrade its track, it’s a little more complicated than simply having a venue that can host an F1 event.
These upgrades will cost between 5 million (R83 million) and 10 million US dollars (R167 million). The proposed FIA Grade 1 upgrade — which notably requires no change to the circuit layout — focuses on enhancing run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, kerbs, and drainage.
It actually depends more on the F1 schedule, and fitting in a new event into the stacked schedule could pose problems.
As it stands, there are 24 races for the upcoming 2026 season - the same number as it was this year.
F1 Race Venue Contracts and Future Schedule Changes
Each venue which hosts an F1 race will have a multi-year contract, and the only venue which will expire in 2026 is Barcelona.
However, Barcelona can still negotiate with the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA).
In fact, Portugal has been added to the schedule in 2027 and 2028. The Belgian Grand Prix will also become a rotational event from 2027.
It means that even though Kyalami will soon become Africa’s only FIA Grade 1 circuit, capable of hosting Formula 1 on the African continent, finding a gap on the calendar could remain the biggest hurdle.
There has been speculation for the last few years that F1 will return to South Africa for the first time since 1993, and excitement has steadily built as it becomes a reality.
When that reality will be though, is the lingering question.