F1 News: FIA President Speaks Out On Possibility Of South African Grand Prix - "Lot Of History In Motorsport"

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem discusses the possibility of a South African Grand Prix.

FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem discussed the potential for Formula 1's expansion into Africa, highlighting South Africa as a key player during an interview with Motorsport-Magazin.com. While the 2024 F1 calendar does not feature any African venues, the conversation with Ben Sulayem offers a glimpse into the sport's future in the continent.

Key Takeaways:

• Potential of South Africa for F1: The Kyalami Circuit in South Africa is frequently mentioned as a potential venue for Formula 1, despite its absence from the 2024 calendar. Ben Sulayem acknowledges the country's rich motorsport history and the ongoing discussions about bringing F1 back to Kyalami.
• Grassroots Development in Africa: The FIA is focusing on grassroots motorsport development in Africa. Ben Sulayem mentions 'Motorsport in a Box,' a programme that provides basic equipment for starting motorsport activities in the region.
• Electric Motorsport Initiatives: Alongside traditional motorsport, Ben Sulayem highlights the FIA's interest in developing an electric championship in Africa, signifying a commitment to innovative and sustainable racing formats in the continent.

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The excitement surrounding Formula 1's potential expansion into Africa has been growing, especially with the Kyalami Circuit in South Africa being a strong contender. FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem's recent comments to Motorsport-Magazin.com have added fuel to this speculation. Ben Sulayem stated:

"We have very good contacts in Africa. There should be more focus on Africa. We have a good vice-president in Africa.

"We are strengthening the local clubs there. In some regions, we start at the grassroots, we call it 'Motorsport in a Box'. This is a box you get from the FIA. It has very simple equipment in it, like timing and phones. At least then you can do speed tests."

He continued:

 "I cannot give orders, the water does not flow down here. It is the other way round, it goes from the bottom to the top. You have to start at the bottom. That is why we have recently launched 'Motorsport in a Box', we are sending it to them and we are going to get them involved in motorsport."

Regarding Formula 1's future in Africa, Ben Sulayem remained cautiously optimistic, particularly about South Africa's potential. 

"In South Africa, they have a lot of history in motorsport. Since last year, there has been a lot of talk about Formula 1 returning to Kyalami. That would be something great for Africa.

"We are also thinking about an electric championship that Africa would like to be involved in. That would also be good."

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