The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, a renowned motorsport venue in South Africa, has been chosen to host the Michelin 24H Series from 8-10 January 2027. This prestigious endurance racing event was originally scheduled to take place in Dubai but was relocated due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region. The Michelin 24H Series, developed by Creventic and approved by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), features a diverse field of cars from several classes, including GT3 supercars and one-make machinery.
Kyalami's rich motorsport history and world-class facilities made it an attractive choice for the event. The circuit, which opened in 1961, has hosted 21 Formula 1 grands prix, world championship motorcycle racing, and endurance events such as the iconic Nine Hours of Kyalami. Its reputation as a fast and flowing track with sweeping corners and challenging elevation changes has made it a favorite among drivers. The circuit's name, meaning "my home" in isiZulu, reflects its legacy at the heart of South African motorsport.
The Michelin 24H Series is a unique championship that allows professionals and amateurs to race side by side. The series features a mix of 12-hour and 24-hour races across various European circuits, with five rounds each year. The event at Kyalami will mark the country's first international 24-hour race under the Michelin 24H Series banner and return top-level international endurance racing to the circuit. According to Jesse de Jong, Creventic's commercial event manager, the decision to relocate the event to Kyalami was influenced by the venue's modern infrastructure and strong interest from teams.
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has undergone significant renovations in the past decade, including the addition of 40 secure pit garages and premium hospitality facilities. These upgrades, combined with its racing heritage, made Kyalami an ideal location for the Michelin 24H Series. Christo Kruger, public relations manager of Porsche South Africa, noted that the event demonstrates South Africa's capability to host large-scale international events. The successful hosting of the Michelin 24H Series could strengthen Kyalami's reputation among global motorsport stakeholders.
The Michelin 24H Series features a diverse field of cars, including GT3 supercars from manufacturers such as Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. The series also includes one-make machinery, such as the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) and Ferrari Challenge cars. The event allows amateur entrants, known as "gentleman drivers," to compete alongside top GT3 drivers. According to de Jong, this unique aspect of the series makes it very special.
The local community has shown extraordinary enthusiasm for the event, with many companies and individuals expressing interest in being part of it. Creventic still needs to appoint a promoter and announce ticket sales, but de Jong is optimistic about the event's potential. The Michelin 24H Series at Kyalami is expected to be an unforgettable experience for South African fans, with many eager to see top-level international endurance racing return to the circuit.
The event is seen as a significant boost to South African motorsport, which has been starved of major international competition in recent years. The return of premium international endurance racing to Kyalami will provide a platform for local drivers to compete against top international drivers. While the event may not directly influence South Africa's ambitions to bring Formula 1 back to the country, it could strengthen Kyalami's reputation among global motorsport stakeholders.
Key points
- Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to host Michelin 24H Series from 8-10 January 2027.
- The event marks the country's first international 24-hour race under the Michelin 24H Series banner.
- The Michelin 24H Series features a diverse field of cars, including GT3 supercars and one-make machinery.
