There’s a certain pleasure in watching a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Watching the cars go round and round on a rack track is anything but boring. It’s the ultimate entertainment experience. Driver skills and fitness are like no other, not to mention the cutting-edge technology. If you haven’t been paying close attention to this year’s season, you’re missing out on some of the best races in history. The series of races – the Grands Prix – are held on purpose-built circuits. Recently, the head of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali, expressed his wish for a return to Africa. The thought of a return to an African Grand Prix has made many fans happy.
Formula 1 hasn’t been to Africa since 1993
The first South African motorsport competition was held in 1934 at the Prince George Circuit at East London, Eastern Cape Province. It was only the 9th event of the season. Just like with every other race, drivers like Bernd Rosemeyer and Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth wanted to see who would win the title for the first time. World War II put an end to the Grand Prix, yet it was revived in 1960 as part of the Formula 1 circuit. Popular as it was, the Grand Prix was canceled following the 1985 race because of the nation’s policy of apartheid. South Africa last hosted a Grand Prix at Kyalami in 1993, won by Alain Prost in the Williams-Renault.
According to Lewis Hamilton, it’s important for the sport to return to Africa
Formula 1 is a global sport, meaning that it’s popular everywhere. The likes of Toto Wolff are embracing the situation, doing what they can to put a smile on their faces. For years, efforts have been made to bring high class auto racing back to the continent, but they have been unsuccessful. Lewis Hamilton, one of the most successful drivers in the world, wants an important African Formula 1 race. In a live encounter with fans, Hamilton was asked what place he would prefer for a Grand Prix. You can guess the answer.
Chloe Targett-Adams, the Global Director of Race Promotion for Formula 1, completely agrees with Hamilton, affirming that not adding Africa to the Formula 1 calendar is a mistake. Anyone hoping for dramatic changes will be happy to hear that a Grand Prix will be held on the African continent within the next 5 years. Besides expanding to Africa, Formula 1 wants to expand into America and Asia. A Formula 1 race for Austin, Texas is possible. Soon enough, the roadshow will make its way into Asia too. Until the complex logistical situation isn’t solved, there are no guarantees.
All in all, we can’t wait to see what will happen. Cars are changing and more exciting racing is encouraged. There’s no shortage of venues around the world to host a Grand Prix. Returning to Africa would be great. It’s just that it’s not that easy. But it’s inconceivable that Africa will be dropped. It’s an iconic place and has provided some memorable races.
