The South African Grand Prix is one step closer to a return after the FIA approved upgrade plans that would turn Kyalami into a Grade 1 circuit.
In order to be allowed to host a Formula 1 World Championship event, circuits must be granted a Grade 1 status.
But that obstacle has now been overcome as former fan favourite track Kyalami has seen plans to upgrade it approved by the FIA.
Kyalami hosted F1 races from 1967-1985, as well as two in the 1990s.
But there have been significant improvements and modifications since then.
In 2016, the track was renovated, turning it into a Grade 2 circuit.
And now these latest upgrades planned have been approved to meet the FIA’s criteria for Grade 1 status.
This means that we could see the South African Grand Prix returning to the calendar sooner than many expected.
#OnThisDay in 1968
Jim Clark dominated the South African Grand Prix
It was to be his 25th – and final #F1 victory pic.twitter.com/hKtvEfnjUS
— Formula 1 (@F1) January 1, 2017
South African Grand Prix Could Return After Grade 1 Upgrades
The planned upgrades will be delivered by UK-based Apex Circuit Design.
Also behind the Miami Grand Prix circuit design, Apex’s plans for Kyalami are five years in the making.
Kyalami circuit owner Toby Venter said: “This is a defining moment for South African motorsport.
“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.”
The South African Grand Prix has taken another step closer to returning to the #F1 calendar with the FIA approving plans for Kyalami to become a Grade 1 circuit:https://t.co/zT8L5QL4Mr
— The Race (@wearetherace) June 18, 2025
The changes won’t mean any alterations in circuit layout. Instead, the modifications will involve upgraded run-off areas, better drainage and kerbs, and improved barriers and safety fencing.
Apex Circtui Design founder Clive Bowen said: “This is a light-touch upgrade in engineering terms, but one that enhances the already excellent circuit standards to meet modern Grade 1 requirements.”
Kyalami now has up to three years to complete the proposed Grade 1 upgrades.
In a press release, it was confirmed that work would be completed “pending the successful outcome of South Africa’s place on the F1 calendar and Kyalami being selected as the preferred hosting venue.”
South African Grand Prix Might Be On 2027 F1 Calendar
A return to South Africa for F1 is something the country is very keen on.
The South African Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture F1 Bid Steering Committee recently requested expressions of interest for a race.
And discussions are now underway for potential venues, with Kyalami the favourite.
There won’t be a South AFrican Grand Prix in 2026, we know that much.
That’s because the 2026 F1 calendar has already been confirmed. But a possible 2027 return is not off the cards.
When Was The Last South African Grand Prix?
The Southa African Grand Prix took place at Kyalami from 1967-1985, as well as in both 1992 and 1993.
That means it’s been 32 years since F1 last went racing in South Africa.
On that day, Frenchman Alain Prost won from pole position in his Williams-Renault.
That would be the final F1 race at Kyalami, with the track removed from the calendar in 1994.
The race proved too costly for organisers, who chose to scrap the event.
Jody Scheckter remains the only South African to ever win their home race, with victory in 1975.
