A consortium, Blue Mountain Racing (BMR), has acquired 600 hectares of land near Kalbaskraal in the Swartland, Western Cape, as part of a R6.7 billion bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix by 2031. The planned circuit is part of a larger development in the area. BMR aims to create a purpose-built racing circuit outside Cape Town, utilizing the city's airport, hotels, and tourism industry to support the event.
The proposed development, to be privately funded, includes a racing circuit, hospitality, conference, and entertainment facilities, as well as residential property. About R2 billion of the investment will go towards the circuit. The venue is expected to accommodate 125,000 spectators. BMR projects that the development will create thousands of jobs and plans to recruit and train 700 to 1,000 race marshals from local communities.
BMR has submitted its proposal to Formula 1, with an assessment process expected to take 12 to 15 months. The consortium wants to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix by 2031, pending government support for the project. BMR member Bob Hartslief emphasized that while taxpayers will not be burdened with costs, government assistance will be required for security, traffic control, and customs clearance.
The decision to build in the Swartland appears to end the prospect of a street circuit in Cape Town. BMR chair Neal Froneman cited disruption to residents and significant public costs as reasons for opting for a purpose-built circuit. The proposed venue will be located outside the city, minimizing disruptions and utilizing existing infrastructure.
The Western Cape bid faces competition from Kyalami, which is also pursuing the return of Formula 1 to Gauteng. South Africa last hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix at Kyalami in 1993. The bid's success is not guaranteed, and the assessment process will determine whether the Western Cape will secure a place on the Formula 1 calendar.
The plans were unveiled in the Swartland, with acting Western Cape Premier Tertuis Simmers, MEC Anton Bredell, and Swartland Mayor Harold Cleophas attending. BMR's proposal has generated interest and support from local stakeholders, who see the potential economic benefits of hosting a Formula 1 event.
If successful, the proposed development will bring significant economic growth to the Western Cape, with thousands of jobs created and a boost to the local tourism industry. The project will also provide opportunities for skills development and training for local residents.
Key points
- The proposed R6.7 billion investment includes R2 billion for the racing circuit and will create thousands of jobs.
- The development will be privately funded, with government support required for security, traffic control, and customs clearance.
- The assessment process for the bid is expected to take 12 to 15 months, with a decision on the Western Cape's inclusion on the Formula 1 calendar pending.
