FIA sets 3-year deadline: Kyalami races toward Grade 1 for 2027 F1 return

The FIA's approval and three-year upgrade deadline mark a decisive step for Kyalami's revival as a Grade 1 circuit, aiming to bring Formula 1 back to South Africa by 2027. This report covers the safety-focused enhancements, government support, and the circuit owner's vision fueling this historic comeback.

Sources:
The RaceSportstar+2
Updated 14h ago
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Sources: The RaceSportstar+1
The South African Grand Prix is on track for a 2027 return to the Formula 1 calendar as the FIA has approved plans for Kyalami to upgrade from Grade 2 to Grade 1 status, a prerequisite for hosting F1 races.

Kyalami's management has enlisted Apex Circuit Design to develop a detailed roadmap for the circuit's upgrade, focusing on safety improvements such as run-off areas, barriers, debris fencing, kerbs, and drainage, rather than altering the circuit layout.

"Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami," said circuit owner Toby Venter, emphasizing the ambition to bring F1 back to South Africa.

The FIA has set a three-year deadline to complete the necessary upgrades, with selected works to commence only after Kyalami is officially chosen to host an F1 race.

South Africa's sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, appointed a new committee in December 2024 to facilitate the country's return to the F1 calendar, signaling strong governmental support.

"The FIA had accepted final design proposals for work which would upgrade Kyalami from the FIA's Grade 2 to the Grade 1 status required for F1," the circuit stated.

If successful, Kyalami could host its first Formula 1 race since 1993, marking a significant milestone for motorsport in South Africa and the continent.

The focus on safety upgrades aligns with FIA regulations, ensuring the circuit meets the highest standards without changing its historic layout.

This development represents a major step forward in reviving the South African Grand Prix and expanding Formula 1's global footprint.

Sources: The RaceSportstar
The FIA has approved plans for Kyalami to upgrade from Grade 2 to Grade 1 status, setting a three-year deadline to complete the work. South Africa aims to return to the Formula 1 calendar by 2027, with upgrades focusing on safety features rather than layout changes.
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The Headline

FIA approves Kyalami upgrades for 2027 F1 return

Key Facts
  • The FIA approved plans for Kyalami to become a Grade 1 circuit, aiming to host a Formula 1 race by 2027.The Race2
  • The FIA accepted final design proposals focusing on safety upgrades such as run-off areas, barriers, debris fencing, kerbs, and drainage, without changing the circuit layout.SportstarThe Race
  • South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie announced a committee to facilitate the country's return to the F1 calendar in 2027.1
  • Circuit owner Toby Venter expressed optimism about the future, stating, 'Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami.'1
  • The FIA granted Kyalami three years to complete the necessary upgrades to achieve Grade 1 status, with some works to be done only after Kyalami is selected to host F1.Sportstar
The South African Grand Prix has taken another step closer to returning to the Formula 1 calendar with the FIA approving plans for Kyalami to become a Grade 1 circuit.
The Race
The Race
However, plans to secure a Grade 1 licence are underway, with Kyalami's management enlisting Apex Circuit Design to prepare a roadmap for the circuit's upgrade. Thus, could host an F1 race by the earliest of 2027.
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Circuit owner Toby Venter said the next step was to bring F1 back to Kyalami.
ESPN India
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A statement from the circuit said that the FIA had accepted final design proposals for work which would upgrade Kyalami from the FIA’s Grade 2 to the Grade 1 status required for F1.
Sportstar
Sportstar
Key Stats at a Glance
Circuit Grade Upgrade
Grade 2 to the Grade 1
Sportstar
Target Year for F1 Race
2027
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Key Dates for F1 Return Efforts
December 2024
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Minister Appointment Date
July 2024
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Background Context

Kyalami's F1 history and current Grade 2 status

Key Facts
  • Kyalami hosted Formula 1 races from 1967 to 1993 before its status was downgraded to a Grade 2 circuit.The Race
Key Stats at a Glance
Years Kyalami Hosted F1
1967 to 1993
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