Cabinet has approved South Africa’s bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix from 2027, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille announced this week.
De Lille said the event would not only showcase South Africa on a global stage but also open up economic opportunities for local communities and young people. As an example, she highlighted 17-year-old racing prodigy Mika Abrahams, who met with her and his parents in Cape Town earlier this week.
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Abrahams, who hopes to reach Formula 1 by 2028, has already drawn international attention with race wins in Formula 4 and a recent step up to GB3 with Fortec Motorsports.
His progress through the junior ranks, reported widely in motorsport coverage and team announcements, reflects South Africa’s growing presence in single-seater racing.
The Department of Tourism shared a video of Abrahams’ meeting with De Lille, underscoring the personal dimension he brings to the country’s F1 aspirations.
This week cabinet approved South Africa’s bid for F1 commencing in 2027. Our bid is not just about showcasing our beautiful country and the economic spin offs. It is also about the children of this country, like Mika Abrahams.
The 17 year old, who is the second youngest person… pic.twitter.com/gnuXIuFZp4
— Patricia de Lille (@PatriciaDeLille) September 5, 2025
Industry analysts note that staging a Grand Prix can generate significant tourism spending, create jobs and boost global visibility, provided organisers secure the necessary investment and a robust staging plan.
According to the tourism department, the F1 bid also forms part of a broader strategy to attract investment and expand South Africa’s sports tourism sector.
For Abrahams and other young drivers, the prospect of racing at home would add an inspiring chapter to South Africa’s push for a return to top-tier motorsport.
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Picture: Hitech Grand Prix / Facebook
