In a monumental development for motorsport on the African continent, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has formally approved the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit’s design plans for an upgrade to Grade 1 status—the highest level of homologation required to host Formula 1.
Originally constructed in 1961, Kyalami swiftly became the premier motorsport facility in Southern Africa. Its summer-friendly climate attracted European racers during their off-season, and by the mid-1970s, the circuit had earned its place among the world’s most iconic Grand Prix venues. Over the years, Kyalami hosted 21 Formula 1 Grand Prix races, the famed Kyalami 9-Hour endurance race, and MotoGP events between 1983 and 1985, helping to spotlight South Africa on the global motorsport map.
The current 4.522 km layout, upgraded in 2016, is already FIA Grade 2 certified and has thrived as a multi-functional venue for racing, exhibitions, conferences, and lifestyle events. But the latest FIA approval signals a new era.
At a recent press conference, circuit owner Toby Venter and Clive Bowen of UK-based Apex Circuit Design unveiled the culmination of a five-year design and planning process, now officially sanctioned by the FIA. Apex, internationally renowned for circuits such as the Miami Formula 1 street track, was instrumental in developing Kyalami’s proposed enhancements.
“This is a defining moment for South African motorsport. We promised to revive Kyalami not just as a premier venue but as a beacon for the African continent. FIA’s Grade 1 design approval is a giant leap forward.”
said Venter
The planned upgrades, crucially, require no changes to the current layout. Instead, improvements will focus on safety and compliance: expanded run-off zones, updated barrier systems, advanced debris fencing, revised kerbing, and enhanced drainage—all necessary to meet modern FIA Grade 1 standards.
“This is a light-touch upgrade in engineering terms, but one that elevates the circuit to meet the highest safety and performance benchmarks globally.”
said Bowen
Kyalami now has a three-year window to complete the required works. Construction will be strategically phased to avoid disrupting existing events, with some upgrades contingent on the inclusion of South Africa in a future Formula 1 calendar and Kyalami being selected as the host venue.
If successful, Kyalami will become the only FIA Grade 1 circuit in Africa, setting the stage for Formula 1’s long-awaited return to the continent and reaffirming the track’s legacy as Africa’s motorsport crown jewel.
“Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter. We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil.”
Venter concluded
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