Will there be Formula 1 in Cape Town?
The boss of Formula 1, Bernie Ecclestone, told News 24 last year that “we’ve been talking to the people of Cape Town… We’re talking about building a circuit. It’s probably three years away.” This caused ripples of excitement and hope that the Grand Prix may well be returning to South Africa for the first time since 1993. The FIFA World Cup last year, held in South Africa, has shown the world that it is ready to host international sporting events.
Recently, Ecclestone has been quoted as saying that he is “weeks away from signing” a contract that would bring the race to Cape Town by September 2013, and that he is just awaiting the approval of his lawyers. News like this will no doubt bring joy to those who remember the days when South Africa’s very own Jody Scheckter was a force to be reckoned with on the track, winning 10 events throughout his career, and taking the title of World Champion in 1979.
This news will ring as good to many different parties. Perhaps most pleasantly surprised will be Bob Fernely, the deputy team boss of Force India, who only recently spoke regretfully of the fact that Africa was the only major continent in which the team doesn’t work. Having the Grand Prix in South Africa will also mean that locals will be presented with more jobs and opportunities, and it will no doubt spark more interest in the sport, boosting both their economy and their culture.
The move will be backed by Motorsport SA, but on the condition that South African drivers are included in the grid, or are at least given the opportunity. The plans for the track have it as 5.3 kilometres long, starting and finishing at the Cape Town Stadium, and passing though Sea Point, Green Point and Mouille Point. The layout of the track is said to make it one of the fastest in the world.
Provided all the paperwork is completed, and Ecclestone’s lawyers are satisfied, and the right assurances are made regarding South African drivers, then it looks as though South Africa will be the home of the Grand Prix in September 2013. Not only does it seem a popular move, it is also affordable and beneficial to South Africa.
There are some great Cape Town hotels to stay at in South Africa.