South Africa acknowledges that its return to Formula 1 is still several years off.

      "We have underestimated what is necessary."

      South Africa's ongoing efforts to bring Formula 1 back to the African continent have faced a reality check, with sports minister Gayton McKenzie admitting that a grand prix will not occur in the near future. After initially expressing optimism, McKenzie now acknowledges that the scale and intricacies of hosting a Formula 1 event have been underestimated, even as work to upgrade the historic Kyalami circuit continues.

      "Definitely not next year," McKenzie told eNCA. "We have underestimated what is needed to host an F1 event. But F1 has supported us. Now we have the experts, and we’re preparing a proposal they cannot refuse."

      Kyalami has initiated an expensive process to attain FIA Grade 1 accreditation, with upgrades expected to cost between $5-10 million. The improvements are focused on run-off areas, barrier systems, debris fencing, curbs, and drainage, without altering the circuit layout.

      However, the calendar itself may pose the greatest challenge. Formula 1 has already scheduled 24 races for 2026, with each venue bound by multi-year contracts. The only contract that is set to expire is that of Barcelona, though the Spanish circuit has the option to renegotiate with the FIA.

      Additionally, Portugal has already secured a spot on the calendar for 2027 and 2028, and the Belgian GP will adopt a rotational model starting in 2027, limiting the availability for new events.

      Motorsport journalist Sudhir Matai, editor of Double Apex, has expressed doubts about the minister's progress. "The minister has stated that he would consider himself a failure if he could not bring F1 back to South Africa," Matai wrote. "This made him a hero among fans, but despite numerous optimistic statements, we are still far from having a race on African soil."

      Officials associated with Kyalami assert that preparations are ongoing, with circuit management indicating that the venue is approximately 90 percent ready and could potentially host Formula 1 as early as 2027 or 2028 if a calendar spot opens up.

      However, South Africa is not the only African nation expressing interest. Rwanda is also pursuing a bid, now aiming for 2029, which could lead to direct competition with Kyalami for a rare opportunity.