Racing Redefined: How Guy Davies turned adversity into speed — and proved that disability isn’t a barrier to equal competition

Guy Davies en route to the start line in his Liqui Moly Porsche 911 Carrera II.
PHOTO CREDIT: Speed Classic Cape Town.

Every so often, a driver reminds the world what motorsport is really about. At the inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town, that driver was Guy Davies. Paralyzed from the waist down after an old rugby injury, the Scottish-born driver turned heads not just for his speed, but for the story behind it. With hand controls and an unbreakable will, he powered his daily-driven Porsche up the 1.8-kilometre Philip Kgosana Drive hillclimb — proving that passion for speed doesn’t fade with circumstance. It simply finds a new way to shift gears.

Originally from Scotland, Davies moved to South Africa in 1995. Back then, his focus was business — exporting Rooibos tea and Buchu — not racing. But in 2000, a rugby injury changed everything. “After my disability, I was quite depressed, thought that my life was over. You then realise that you actually are the same person, and you've got the same hopes and desires as before, you just have to approach things a bit differently.”

That revelation became a turning point. Racing, once a youthful passion, became a mission. “This is about showing that people with disabilities can compete equally,” he explains. “Give us the right adaptations, and we’ll match anyone.” His times at Speed Classic Cape Town weren’t a sideshow; they stood tall among the best — and told a story far bigger than lap times ever could. 

In 2025, at the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, Davies didn’t just compete — he claimed third in his category, driving his 2018 Porsche 911 Carrera II. It wasn’t a purpose-built racecar trailered in; it was his daily driver, modified with hand-controls, driven to the event, raced, and driven home — with over 217,466 kilometres on the clock.

For Davies, racing is deeply personal. His wife survived breast cancer and leukaemia. “It focuses the mind a lot,” he says. “It’s about carpe diem — seize the day. Don’t wait for tomorrow. Enjoy life while you can. It’s a celebration of life.” Her resilience fuels him. “She supports me from home.”

Davies in his Porsche after completing his final run at Speed Classic Cape Town.
PHOTO CREDIT: Slipstream SA

His Porsche may be comparatively modest in specification, but it’s monumental in meaning. “It’s the base coupe — the slowest, least powerful one,” he explains. “All we added were hand controls. So, you pull to accelerate, and push to brake. I maintain that I’ve actually got more control than most people have with their feet. And, it’s easy to get used to.”

Guy adds that his engineering team is currently working on converting a Subaru. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to run two cars next year,” he says. “This one will be a bit different, as it’s a manual — so we’re fitting a clutch onto the gear change.”

Despite the limitations that a wheelchair presents, once in his car, it becomes the great equaliser. As he explains, “once you're behind the wheel of a car, the disability disappears. When I'm driving on the road, I'm just the same as everyone else. I'm just another car, another driver. The difference is I'm better than them.”

Davies wants people to see the normality behind the wheel. “Just because I'm in a wheelchair, people shouldn't see me any differently. A wheelchair is purely a mobility device. That's all it is to it.” Yet ignorance persists. “I will have complete strangers come up to me and say, ‘oh, what a waste of a nice car on someone like you. You ought to give it to me. A cripple like you can't drive a car, can't enjoy a car like this.’ Rather than just telling those people to bugger off, now I can turn around and say, ‘well, okay, you go, and have a go at the Speed Classic Cape Town event. Go and do a time, come back and tell me if you can beat my time.’”

Every run is more than a test of speed — it’s a statement of equality. Before his accident, Davies was a six-foot-two male who rarely noticed inequality. Being in a wheelchair changed that instantly. “If you're a white male, 6-foot-2, nobody pushes in the queue in front of you, and you think that's normal. And, all of a sudden, I was in a wheelchair, and I remember coming home saying, bloody people are pushing in front of me in the queue. And, my five-foot-two wife said, ‘join the real world, it happens all the time.’” That awareness deepened when he and his wife adopted their daughter, who faces discrimination as a person of colour, and as he sees the challenges women encounter daily. These experiences have shaped both the person he is off the track and the racer.

Off the track, Davies runs his accessibility consultancy, lectures part-time at the University of Cape Town, and still finds time to chase podiums. His racing carries even greater purpose: a friend invited him to drive in memory of his grandson Jack — a young boy with severe disabilities who tragically passed away. “Jack comes with me in every race,” Davies says, showing a photo on the back of his phone - “He’s my co-pilot.”

Applause from fans as Guy Davies returns from a run up the hill at Speed Classic Cape Town.
PHOTO CREDIT: Speed Classic Cape Town

At Speed Classic Cape Town, Davies hit his goal. “I wanted to be under 50 seconds — and I am. I’m really pleased,” he says, smiling. His 49.674-second run placed him fifth overall in the A2 category.

From Simola to Killarney MasterDrive and now Speed Classic Cape Town, he’s already eyeing the next challenge. “If there are more hillclimbs, sign me up.”

Guy Davies reminds us that racing is never just about speed — it’s about courage, purpose, and equality. Every hill he climbs, every lap he completes, is a testament to what happens when determination meets opportunity. His story isn’t just for motorsport fans; it’s a lesson for anyone facing obstacles: adapt, persist, and rise. Sometimes, the most extraordinary victories aren’t measured in seconds or metres — they’re measured in the human spirit that drives us forward.

If you'd like to follow Guy's next adventure and see where the road takes him next, head over to Instagram @guydavies41 for updates behind-the-scenes moments, and more. 

Speed Classic Cape Town delivers a weekend of pure adrenaline beneath Table Mountain

Franco Scribante in his purpose-built Nissan R35 GTR Skyline.
PHOTO CREDIT: Slipstream SA

Beneath the shadow of Table Mountain, Cape Town roared back to life. The inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town wasn’t just a race — it was a resurrection. Over one unforgettable weekend, history and horsepower collided as the city’s most scenic stretch of tarmac, Philip Kgosana Drive, became a 1.8-kilometre battleground of sound, smoke, and speed, reigniting a motorsport spirit dormant for more than half a century.

For two days, history met horsepower as classic icons and purpose-built monsters raced against time beneath one of the 7 Wonders of Nature – Table Mountain. Saturday’s curtain-raiser delivered a mechanical symphony that felt both nostalgic and daringly alive. Nearly seventy classic and historic cars — from pre-war racers to snarling 1970s single-seaters — attacked the twisting ascent with engines screaming and tyres clawing for grip. The crowd lining the route erupted with every launch.

A classic 1930 4.5 litre LeMans Bentley in action.
PHOTO CREDIT: Slipstream SA

At the sharp end, Charles Arton emerged as the man to beat. Behind the wheel of his 1979 March 79A Formula Atlantic, he produced a stunning 40.143-second run to claim the inaugural Classic Champion title. “Beyond expectations is the simple answer for today,” Arton said afterwards, visibly emotional. “I am extremely proud to be the first Classic Champion at Speed Classic Cape Town. There’s a lot of pressure in an event like this, so when it all comes together, it’s pure joy.”

Hot on his heels, Franco Scribante clocked a 40.362 in his Chevron B19, while James Temple’s Shelby Daytona Coupe completed the podium on 43.245. For event director Garth Mackintosh, watching priceless cars being driven in anger was a dream realised. “We witnessed motorsport jewellery out on track today,” he said. “It’s rare to see cars of this calibre being pushed like that — it was absolutely special.”

A Ferrari 458 Speciale attacking the 1.8km hillclimb at Speed Classic Cape Town.
PHOTO CREDIT: Slipstream SA

If Saturday celebrated heritage and craftsmanship, Sunday was a full-throttle demonstration of modern performance. The hill echoed with the roar of nearly eighty supercars and race-bred hillclimb machines — Ferraris, McLarens, Lamborghinis, and turbocharged saloon cars with over a thousand horsepower — hurtling toward the summit at nearly 240 km/h. The battle for the first King of the Mountain title came down to sheer nerve and precision.

Franco Scribante, determined to make up for his near miss the day before, found redemption in spectacular fashion. Piloting his Nissan GT-R R35, he dug deep in the final shootout to post a blistering 35.260 seconds — just 0.599 clear of Reghard Roets, also in a GT-R. Dawie Joubert, in a nimble Lotus Exige nicknamed Lotari, rounded out the top three with a 37.407. “We were absolutely nowhere earlier in the day,” Scribante said. “I knew we’d have to dig deep. It was a miracle that it all came together in the final run. I can’t wait to be back again next year.”

There was heartbreak for Pieter Zeelie, who had dominated the timesheets before a faulty start ended his hopes.

Enzo Kuun, race director for Speed Classic Cape Town, described the course as “one of the most scenic tracks in the world,” saying, “To race with Table Mountain to my right, the Atlantic Ocean to my left and Lion’s Head behind me was an absolute privilege and epic experience.”

By the end of the weekend, Speed Classic Cape Town had drawn close to 15,000 spectators to the mountain and more than 180,000 online. The event ran under Motorsport South Africa sanctioning, with full safety and logistics support from Volvo Car South Africa — whose XC90s and all-electric EX30s served as official safety and support vehicles.

It wasn’t just a motorsport event — it was the rebirth of one. The last major city hillclimb on Cape Town’s roads was more than sixty years ago, and organisers knew they were reviving a legacy as much as launching something new. As the final cars rolled into parc fermé, Mackintosh looked across the mountain road, satisfied. “To see our vision come to life has been incredible,” he said. “This was only the beginning. From here, we can only grow stronger.”

"I will never wash this hand," the kids shouted when getting to slap the hand of the drivers returning to the pits.
PHOTO CREDIT: Slipstream SA

Moments were captured, and memories were made, as Speed Classic Cape Town etched itself into local motorsport folklore — an event destined to be remembered as one of those “I was there” moments. And when the engines finally fell silent, the city seemed to exhale. The mountain stood calm once again, watching over a weekend that redefined what motorsport in South Africa could look like.. The names of Arton and Scribante no etched in the record books — the first champions of an event that already feels destined to become a Cape Town classic. 

Heineken World Tour brings F1 fever to Cape Town

Get ready, Cape Town — on 30 November 2025, the Heineken World Tour roars into town, transforming the Mother City into a high-octane celebration of speed, sound, and style.

This isn’t just an event — it’s a global F1 experience brought to life on South African soil. From the growl of authentic Formula 1 machinery to the pulse of live music and Heineken’s signature sophistication, this one-day spectacular is where racing passion meets world-class entertainment.

Themed “More than a race — it’s a lap around the world,” the Heineken World Tour captures everything that makes Formula 1 special: the precision, the glamour, the global energy — all wrapped up in a single unforgettable day.

Fans can expect to get closer than ever to the world of Formula 1, with stunning car displays with Sam Sam, immersive fan zones, and an electric atmosphere that merges Cape Town’s urban energy with the heartbeat of motorsport’s biggest stage.

And when the sun dips, the city won’t slow down — it’ll light up. Live performances, premium experiences, and a special live viewing of the Qatar Grand Prix will turn the streets into the ultimate celebration of F1 culture.

“This isn’t just about watching a race,” says Alex Drake, Heineken Brand Director South Africa. “It’s about stepping into the world of F1, feeling the adrenaline, the style, and the excitement firsthand. Cape Town will become a global F1 hub for the day.”

From VIP hospitality to immersive lifestyle zones, every detail is designed to make fans feel part of something extraordinary. Whether you’re a hardcore petrolhead or just in it for the music, energy, and atmosphere, the Heineken World Tour promises to deliver a premium experience that lives long after the chequered flag.

“We’re bringing global energy home,” adds Warrick Wyngaard, Heineken South Africa’s Marketing Communication Manager. “This World Tour is for everyone — F1 fans, lifestyle lovers, and anyone who wants to feel the pulse of a global celebration. Cape Town is ready for its moment.”

The Heineken World Tour: where Formula 1 meets the streets of Cape Town. Don’t just watch it — live it. Grab your tickets now!! 

Speed Classic Cape Town: A New Era of Hillclimb Set to Ignite the Mother City

Cape Town is about to experience a motorsport weekend like no other. The inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town, taking place on 25–26 October 2025, will transform the iconic Philip Kgosana Drive into a high-octane hillclimb showdown — powered by an all-star lineup of partners helping turn this vision into a world-class celebration of speed, style, and pure racing passion.

Leading the charge is Volvo South Africa, taking the wheel as the event’s official automotive partner. A premium fleet — from the flagship XC90 to the cutting-edge fully electric EX30 — will headline safety, support, and shuttle duties throughout the weekend. Fans can also witness the EX30 in action during an exclusive on-track experience that highlights Volvo’s seamless blend of performance, innovation, and world-class safety.

If the roar of racing engines doesn’t get your heart racing, then a Red Bull Racing demo display will definitely grab your attention on Sunday, 26 October. With Red Bull DJs keeping the energy alive and the brand fuelling drivers between runs, fans can expect the atmosphere to be electric from start to finish.

Adding a touch of style, PUMA will ensure every driver looks the part with exclusive goodie bags for all entrants. Spectators can get in on the action too — every ticket includes a 20% discount voucher for PUMA’s official online store, bringing a dose of racing flair to fans across the city.

Cape Town radio stations, Kfm 94.5 and CapeTalk, are turning up the volume with pre-race coverage, exclusive interviews, and live competitions as anticipation builds toward the event. Expect the Mother City to buzz with Speed Classic fever as the countdown continues.

From ice-cold refreshments courtesy of Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages (CCPB) to seamless event connectivity powered by Octotel and Clear Access, Speed Classic Cape Town is being engineered for maximum fan experience. The event also enjoys the invaluable backing of the City of Cape Town, whose early support has been crucial in bringing this world-class motorsport festival to life.

“Partnerships are at the heart of bringing an event like Speed Classic Cape Town to life,” says Event Director Garth Mackintosh. “Our sponsors share our vision of creating a motorsport celebration that captures Cape Town’s energy, creativity, and passion for performance.”

From Volvos to Formula 1 icons, pulsing DJ sets, and panoramic mountain views — Speed Classic Cape Town isn’t just an event; it’s the start of a new motorsport tradition. If you love the sound of engines echoing off Table Mountain, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

Name: Speed Classic Cape Town

Dates: 25–26 October 2025

Venue: Philip Kgosana Drive, Gardens, Cape Town

Course: 1.8km | Elevation Gain: 150.1m

Tickets HERE

Everything you need to know HERE

Heineken brings F1 flair to Luxurious Marble Circus ahead of Cape Town World Tour

SUPPLIED: Heineken SA.

Heineken brought the thrill of Formula 1 to life at the Luxurious Marble Circus, combining cutting-edge style with racing prestige. In true Heineken fashion, the brand delivered an immersive motorsport experience, headlined by the launch of its special-edition, track-inspired bottles — a celebration of speed, innovation, and premium craftsmanship.

Inspired by Formula 1’s precision, performance, and pursuit of perfection, Heineken’s special-edition bottle captures the essence of the sport in both form and function. Every curve and contour reflects racing’s aerodynamic artistry, delivering a design that’s meant to be admired, held, and enjoyed. Inside the Heineken Dome, it became more than just a drink — it was an experience that celebrated innovation, craftsmanship, and the thrill of F1.

“Every detail of this bottle is a statement of innovation and craftsmanship,” said Warrick Wyngaard, Marketing Communication Manager at Heineken South Africa. “We’re thrilled to bring this level of design to the table to complement our partnership with the most exhilarating sport on four wheels. It’s pure finish inside and out.”

The Heineken dome quickly became a focal point of the event, offering guests not just a drink, but what the brand calls “a complete experience.” The new bottle, with its polished contours and premium feel, became a talking point among attendees — a symbol of Heineken’s push to merge modern design with its long-standing association with Formula 1.

Heineken’s special-edition, track-inspired bottles celebrate six of Formula 1’s most iconic circuits: Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Circuit de Catalunya-Barcelona, Zandvoort, Interlagos, Silverstone, and Monza. Each bottle captures the spirit and history of these legendary tracks, bringing the thrill of F1 straight into the hands of fans.

SUPPLIED: Heineken SA

Adding a touch of theatre, a mysterious “helmet man” in a Heineken race suit roamed the venue, creating buzz on social media and adding an element of surprise that played perfectly into the brand’s F1 narrative.

“Being at the Luxurious Marble Circus was all about celebrating the rare and the extraordinary,” Wyngaard added. “From our super-exclusive bottles to the first-ever appearance of the Hero in the Helmet, fans got a real taste of the premium experiences Heineken is known for.”

The Marble Circus showcase serves as a prelude to Heineken’s World Tour event in Cape Town on 30 November, where fans will have the chance to get up close to the world of Formula 1. The activation promises live engines, photo opportunities with a real F1 car, and an atmosphere designed to bring the energy of a Grand Prix to South African streets.

Since partnering with Formula 1 in 2016, Heineken has staged a series of high-profile activations across the globe, each designed to connect fans with the sport’s energy and elegance.

“Whether it’s clinking a limited-edition bottle with friends or feeling the thrill of Formula 1 up close, Heineken is all about bringing the excitement straight to fans,” Wyngaard concluded. “South Africa loves F1, and we’re ready to give them a taste of racing’s global spectacle.”

Kristoffersson seals historic eighth title as World RX era ends in Türkiye thriller.

PHOTO CREDIT: QNIGAN/KMS HORSE Powertrain

The World RX of Türkiye brought the curtain down on the season with a dramatic and fiercely contested finale, as Johan Kristoffersson secured his record-extending eighth FIA World Rallycross Championship title following an intense battle with long-time rival Niclas Grönholm. Throughout the double-header weekend in Istanbul, the two drivers exchanged strong performances, with Grönholm initially setting the pace before Kristoffersson mounted a decisive response. Ultimately, Kristoffersson clinched the championship after finishing second behind Kristoffersson Motorsport teammate Ole Christian Veiby in the final qualifying rankings.

Veiby delivered a standout performance to claim his third career World RX victory, demonstrating both speed and resilience across the weekend. The action began on Saturday with Grönholm stating his intentions with strong qualifying results. The CE Dealer Team driver showed aggression from the outset, fending off Euro RX1 contender Damian Litwinowicz in Q1 before overtaking fellow Finn Mika Liimatainen in Q2. In Q3, Grönholm edged past Kristoffersson in a series of intense, side-by-side battles to top the intermediate standings, narrowing the championship gap and maintaining pressure on the reigning champion.

However, in the final, Kristoffersson shifted momentum. After shadowing Grönholm in the early stages, the Swede executed a bold inside pass mid-race to seize the lead, steadily pulling away to secure his 48th World RX victory and extend his championship advantage. Grönholm, unable to respond, finished second but remained a contender heading into Sunday’s competition.

The race to turn one, with Gronholm in prime position to lead and Kristoffersson on the outside.
PHOTO CREDIT: CE Dealerteam

Veiby faced challenges on Saturday, including a spin in Q1 after contact with barriers and a collision with Kristoffersson in Q3, which hindered his progress. In the final, he engaged in a fierce battle with Klara Andersson for third place, resulting in multiple collisions. Although Veiby initially crossed the line ahead, a post-race penalty relegated him behind the CE Dealer Team driver. Reflecting on the day, Veiby said, “Yesterday was difficult. We had strong pace, but the final did not go as planned. Johan assisted with team tactics earlier, but it feels particularly rewarding to beat him on pace in the final.”

Sunday marked a turning point for Veiby, who demonstrated exceptional form by topping nearly all qualifying heats and dominating his semi-final. Kristoffersson experienced a turbulent semi-final, where a lightning-fast start from Mika Liimatainen meant he had initially led, but after a costly mistake clipping a tyre barrier, the Finn went up on two wheels, and with nowhere to go for Kristoffersson, the Hyundai landed on the front of the Polo RX1e, and with slight contact, it rolled over. Following the restart, Kristoffersson, Grönholm, and Andersson advanced to the final.

The grid for the final featured Veiby and Kristoffersson, who had locked out the front row for Kristoffersson Motorsport, followed by Grönholm, 16-year-old wildcard Joni Turpeinen, Nils Volland, and Andersson. At the start, Veiby launched his Volkswagen Polo RX1e decisively into the lead and maintained a consistent, measured pace, fending off pressure from Kristoffersson. With the championship secured, Kristoffersson adopted a calculated approach, shadowing Veiby and controlling Grönholm behind, securing a clean 1-2 finish for Kristoffersson Motorsport and confirming both the Drivers’ and Teams’ Championships.

OC Veiby and Johan Kristoffersson are celebrating after the final round in Turkiye.
PHOTO CREDIT: QNIGAN/Kristoffersson Motorsport

Reflecting on the weekend, Kristoffersson stated, “I am incredibly proud—not just of my own performance but of the entire team and our partners. I gave everything to support Ole Christian in his fight against Niclas. It was a tight battle, with Ole Christian just one point shy. He drove exceptionally well in the final, and it was rewarding to push hard for six laps.”

Wildcard entrant Joni Turpeinen was a standout performer, impressing the paddock with composure beyond his 16 years. Holding third position for most of the race despite intense pressure from Grönholm and Volland, Turpeinen narrowly missed a podium finish, ultimately securing fourth place on debut and marking himself as a future contender.

Andersson concluded the weekend in fifth, contending with a low-grip gravel surface that limited her pace. Volland completed the top six after a challenging race that included a poorly timed joker lap, which left him isolated at the back.

For Grönholm, the weekend was a mixture of strong performances and near misses. “I’m proud of what we achieved this season—from the win in Portugal and three podiums to leading in Finland and finishing second overall,” he said. “Looking back, there is little I could have done differently, aside from some unfortunate luck in Hungary and at home.”

From Grönholm’s early promise to Veiby’s resurgence and Kristoffersson’s historic title triumph, the World RX of Türkiye delivered a captivating season finale, rich with stories of emerging talent and established excellence. As the 2025 season draws to a close, the sport stands on the cusp of a significant transition. Beginning in 2026, the championship will revert to a European Rallycross Championship format, complemented by a standalone FIA Rallycross World Cup event. Furthermore, the FIA has announced the discontinuation of electric vehicles in competition, with future eligibility limited exclusively to combustion-engine supercars powered by sustainable fuels, marking a new direction for the sport.

CAPE TOWN’S STREETS SET TO IGNITE THIS OCTOBER WITH THE INAUGURAL SPEED CLASSIC!

Speed Classic Cape Town launch event display. 
PHOTO CREDIT: Junaid Samodien - Slipstream SA

Cape Town, buckle up – because this October, Philip Kgosana Drive isn’t just a scenic road… it’s turning into a battleground of horsepower, heritage, and pure high-octane glory!

On 25 and 26 October, the Speed Classic Cape Town roars into life for the very first time, unleashing a thrilling hill climb race that fuses motoring heritage, modern muscle, and elite lifestyle experiences — all set against the iconic backdrop of the Mother City.

As the Mother City gears up for this landmark event, anticipation is already reaching fever pitch. Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Executive Mayor for the City of Cape Town has thrown his full support behind the race, describing it as a potential flagship event for Cape Town that could attract global attention and bring motorsport lovers from around the world to our shores. And with just weeks to go, Event Director Garth Mackintosh says the excitement is tangible as final preparations are made to deliver a world-class spectacle.

The action kicks off on Saturday, 25 October, when Philip Kgosana Dr. plays host to some of the most valuable and iconic classic cars ever built. These aren't museum pieces — these are rare machines being brought to life at speed, on the open road, in front of thousands of spectators. Among the head-turners, Stuart Mackay-Davidson will be driving a 1980 Ferrari 308 GTB, one of only five in the country. Harry Tayler will command the only known 1930 Bentley 4.5L Le Mans in South Africa. Charles Arton brings his 1979 March 79A, a rare Formula Atlantic race car built specifically for South African competition.

South African hillclimb and racing icon Franco Scribante will be present, and is set to pilot the South African 6 hours winning 1970 Chevron B19 — a true endurance prototype, and one of only 30 ever made. He’ll be joined by Silvio Scribante in a 1970s Ford Capri Perana, a uniquely South African muscle car born from the genius of Basil Green in partnership with Ford, with fewer than 100 remaining worldwide. Adding an international edge, Swiss drivers Serge Endress and Matthias Annefield will take part, piloting a 1965 Lola T70 Spyder and a 1971 Capri Perana respectively.

But the star power doesn’t stop there. Former Formula 1 driver and 1988 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jan Lammers will be on the grid on Saturday, adding serious international pedigree to an already elite line-up. 

For Race Director Enzo Kuun, the presence of such historic vehicles is more than just nostalgia — it’s about reviving history. “Classic cars are like art, and you just cannot replace them. They were designed in a bygone era and have become collectors’ items,” he said. “What makes the Speed Classic Cape town so special is that on Classic Car Saturday we are bringing these cars out of collections and onto the track, and are inviting collectors to showcase their cars.”

HillClimb route supplied by Speed Classic Cape Town.

On Sunday, 26 October, the tempo rises as modern supercars, GT monsters, and single-seater rockets face off in a no-holds-barred battle for supremacy in the King of the Mountain showdown. Expect to see some of the fastest machines in the country — and the world — scream up the hill. Among them, Farouk Dangor’s ultra-rare Ferrari SF90 Stradale, one of only eleven in South Africa and capable of 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds. Greg Parton brings his Lamborghini Aventador, a naturally aspirated V12 beast that defines the word “supercar.” Pieter Zeelie will charge the hill in his Toyota MR2 Super GT, fresh off a King of the Hill title at Simola 2025. Dawie Joubert arrives with his ferocious Lotus Exige, fitted with a twin-turbo Ferrari V8 engine — a street-legal missile that’s as outrageous as it sounds. Franco Scribante returns on Sunday in his monstrous 1,500-horsepower Nissan GTR, nicknamed “The Sheriff,” which took the Simola crown in 2023. Marcel Angel brings serious GT firepower with his Ferrari 488 GT3, a championship-winning machine that’s competed across Europe. Byron Mitchell will push the limits in a Reynard Formula VW, a former German F3 car that earned him the Simola 2025 single-seater title. And making history of his own, Connor Kilbride will drive the ultra-light Ligier JS53 Evo2 — a prototype racer never before documented in South African hill climb events.

With speeds that these beasts are set to reach, safety is paramount. Speed Classic Cape Town Project Director Steyn Momberg confirms that the event is fully certified by Motorsport South Africa, and the same elite-level safety infrastructure used for Formula E has been put in place — including barriers, catch fencing, and Cape Town’s top disaster management team. “We’ve built this event to world-class standards. We’re not cutting corners. We’re raising the bar,” he said.

Beasts among us - Ford GT40 [left], McLaren 720S, Cobra [replica] and a rare Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
PHOTO CREDIT: Junaid Samodien - Slipstream SA. 

But Speed Classic Cape Town is more than a race. It’s a lifestyle experience built for the whole city. From exclusive hospitality zones and grandstands with sweeping views, to a bustling race village filled with food stalls, brand activations, live screens, and kids' zones, it’s designed to thrill petrolheads, families, and curious newcomers alike. This is more than motorsport — it’s Cape Town’s newest destination event.

The countdown is on. The engines are ready. The mountain is waiting. This is Speed Classic Cape Town, so grab your tickets right now, because it’s going to be unforgettable!

A Perfect Storm in Finland: Veiby Claims Victory, Kristoffersson Extends Championship Lead, Rytkönen Looses Podium After Collision With Grönholm.

PHOTO CREDIT: Kristoffersson Motorsport

The FIA World Rallycross Championship’s (World RX) first-ever visit to Finland delivered high drama, heartbreak, and a second victory for Ole Christian Veiby, who narrowly edged out his team-mate and reigning champion Johan Kristoffersson in a chaotic final at the all-new KymiRing. What began as a textbook performance from Kristoffersson on Saturday turned into a thriller on Sunday, where unpredictable weather, bold tyre strategies, and raw speed shook up the leaderboard.

From the opening laps of Qualifying on Saturday, Kristoffersson made clear why he's the benchmark in World RX. Metronomic in his pace and flawless in execution, the Swede delivered nearly identical lap times in his KMS Volkswagen Polo RX1e across both Q1 and Q2, showcasing the clinical precision that has brought him seven world titles. But home hero Niclas Grönholm wasn’t about to let him walk away with it. Firing off the line in Q1, the Finn snatched the early lead to the delight of his home town fans who packed Finnish hillsides, only for Kristoffersson to claw back the advantage with a perfectly timed early joker and overtake just after the merge to win by half a second.

Their battle intensified in Q2 when Veiby added to the drama, forcing a squeeze into Turn 1 that tagged Grönholm and opened the door for Kristoffersson to strike again. Despite fierce pressure, Grönholm had to settle for second place once more — both in the heat and overall standings. Kevin Hansen, meanwhile, had a mixed day. After being boxed in during Q1 following contact, he bounced back in Q2, executing a perfect joker strategy to win the heat and end the day third overall. Veiby, who had started strong by winning his opening heat, saw his momentum interrupted by more contact in Q2 but still finished in fourth-place.

One of the biggest crowd-pleasers was Juha Rytkönen, the only driver in the field racing a sustainably-fuelled, ICE-powered Hyundai i20. The Suonenjoki native delighted the home crowd with daring moves — diving around the outside at Turn 1 and going wheel-to-wheel with Veiby to finish his day in fifth overall. Behind him, both Timmy Hansen and Klara Andersson struggled to find rhythm on the challenging, undulating circuit, finishing sixth and seventh respectively, though both showed glimpses of potential heading into Sunday’s decisive heats.

By Sunday morning, Veiby had powered his way to victory in Heat 3, climbing into the top three of the intermediate standings behind Kristoffersson and Grönholm. Rytkönen, Kevin Hansen, and Timmy Hansen also advanced to the final, setting up a six-car showdown with massive championship implications. Intermittent rain throughout the day added another layer o complexity, with tyre strategy becoming a make-or-break factor.

Niclas Gronholm leads the final before it all goes wrong.
PHOTO CREDIT: CE Dealerteam.

At the start of the final, it was Grönholm who launched best from the outside of the front row, determined to strike back and reduce the gap to Kristoffersson in the championship standings. But heartbreak followed almost immediately. Contact into Turn 2 — involving Timmy Hansen and Rytkönen — sent the Finnish fan-favourite spinning out of contention before the first lap was complete. Rytkönen, having started from the back, emerged in the lead in stunning fashion, with Veiby close behind and Kristoffersson shuffled to fifth behind the Hansen brothers’.

Timmy Hansen soon began to slow, his Peugeot 208 WRX visibly crabbing around the track. As he struggled, Kristoffersson picked his moment, diving past on lap two and quickly closing in on the leading duo. The battle mirrored the epic duel between Kristoffersson and Rytkönen in Turkey the previous season, but this time, the Norwegian had played his cards better. Veiby had already jokered and sat just 2.5 seconds off the lead in clean air. On lap three, Rytkönen took his joker, managing to rejoin ahead of the Hansen brother, but releasing Kristoffersson to build a gap before taking his own joker on the final lap.

It wasn’t enough though, as Kristoffersson emerged from the joker just behind his team-mate, who had matched his pace to perfection and crossed the line three-tenths of a second ahead — claiming his second career victory in World RX. Both KMS cars picked up punctures near the end, but such was their advantage that nothing could threaten their one-two finish.

“Getting another win feels fantastic,” said Veiby. “The final was wild — I had to fight through after being pushed wide early, but the joker strategy gave me clean air and I stayed close. When Johan jokered, I managed to come out just in front. That 1-2 is big for the team and big for the title race.”

Rytkönen initially stood on the podium after finishing third on the road. But post-race, the FIA Stewards handed him a two-second penalty for the Turn 2 contact with Grönholm, relegating him to fifth and promoting Kevin Hansen to third. Timmy Hansen, whose weekend had nearly ended before it began due to team complications, salvaged fourth after a strong Heat 4 performance got him into the final at the expense of Klara Andersson. Andersson’s day ended in disappointment after a rocket start in Heat 4 ended with her crashing into the tyre barriers following contact in Turn Two.

While the top step eluded Kristoffersson this time, second place proved more than enough to extend his lead in the championship. He now holds a 15-point advantage over the luckless Grönholm heading into the Istanbul Park double-header finale. Veiby’s win elevated him to third in the standings, overtaking Timmy Hansen and putting him just four points off second place.

Kristoffersson was reflective but upbeat. “I had too much wheel spin at the start, and from there I got caught in traffic. Ole drove really well today. The cars have been running like clockwork all weekend, and we picked the right tyre strategy. I’m happy with how we’re positioned for the finale.”

Kevin Hansen, who was promoted to the podium after Rytkönen’s penalty, added: “Finally some silverware for me this season. A shame that it came about from a penalty for Juha [Rytkönen] but after what we’ve been through we can’t help but feel great about a podium. The team really deserve it after such a rollercoaster of a week. A massive thank you to the CE Dealer Team and Volvo Construction Equipment. Without them we wouldn’t have been here fighting for a podium in the first place and we really appreciate their support.”

As the dust settles in Finland, the championship momentum now heads towards Istanbul Park on 20-21 September. Kristoffersson may be in control, but with Veiby on form and Grönholm still hungry, the final double-header promises a spectacular showdown to close the 2025 World RX season.

NOTE: Thank You to CE Dealer Team, Volvo Construction Equipment and the PWR Group, for setting aside their rivalry to help Hansen Motorsport take the grid in Finland. 

Cleared for Takeoff: World RX Builds Momentum on the Road to Revival.

Seven-time FIA World Rallycross Champion Johan Kristoffersson launching off a jump.
PHOTO CREDIT: Kristoffersson Motorsport

After years of ups and downs, the FIA World Rallycross Championship (World RX)—one of motorsport’s most dynamic disciplines—is gathering fresh momentum. Now firmly under the direct stewardship of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the championship is entering an exciting new chapter marked by renewed optimism, greater accessibility, and a clear sense of direction.

Much like an aircraft gathering speed on the tarmac, World RX hit critical velocity in 2014. That inaugural season launched the discipline into the global spotlight with a roar. A grid packed with motorsport icons—Ken Block, Petter and Henning Solberg, Mattias Ekström, Tanner Foust, Timmy Hansen and Jacques Villeneuve—captured fans' imaginations. Over twelve thrilling rounds that year, Petter Solberg made history, becoming the first driver to win two FIA World Championships in different disciplines.

Riding high, the series grew rapidly. Major manufacturers such as Audi, Volkswagen, and Ford entered the fray, injecting factory-level competition into the paddock. Promoter IMG made a bold move by streaming races live on YouTube, vastly increasing accessibility and building a loyal global fanbase. Rallycross—with its short, high-octane races and duel-surface tracks—was becoming a bona fide global phenomenon.

But just as swiftly as it rose, World RX faced headwinds. Electrification, once seen as the future, became a divisive issue. When plans to transition stalled, so did manufacturer commitment. By the end of 2018, Audi, Volkswagen, and Peugeot all withdrew—marking the beginning of a turbulent chapter.

In the absence of factory teams, independent outfits stepped up, ushering in what became known as the privateer era. Despite delivering some memorable racing moments, the financial strain of competing at a world championship level became apparent. Entry numbers fell from 40 to just 25 by the final seasons of internal combustion engined Supercars. IMG exited in 2021, and Rallycross Promoter GmbH took over. In 2022, they introduced the long-awaited electric era, powered by cutting-edge Kreisel Electric powertrains.

The transition was not without complications. Broadcasts moved behind paywalls, limiting accessibility. Some regions received delayed highlights while others were left with YouTube highlights. A new commentary team was also introduced, with Martin Haven and later Nick Fellows taking over. Though both brought professionalism, many missed the unique chemistry of fan-favorite duo Andrew Coley and Dan Rooke. To add insight, respected rallycross journalist Hal Ridge was brought on board.

Special ONE Racing's Lancia Delta Evo-e's on fire at Lydden Hill. 

VIDEO SOURCE: _rallycross_ on IG

Then came 2023—arguably the most challenging seasons yet. During the UK round at Lydden Hill, a devastating fire destroyed both Special ONE Racing Lancia Delta Evo-e cars. The event, along with two others, was cancelled. To salvage the season, the FIA and RX Promoter made an extraordinary decision: the remaining rounds would be completed using RX2e cars.

Determined to reconnect with fans, RX Promoter implemented new changes in 2024. Mike Chen was appointed lead commentator—a decision that earned widespread praise. His energy evoked the spirit of Andrew Coley, and although fans continued to miss the Coley–Rooke dynamic, the effort to re-establish the emotional core of the broadcast was clear.

Behind the scenes, however, change was coming fast. RX Promoter unexpectedly stepped down ahead of the 2025 season, throwing the championship’s immediate future into question. In response, the FIA assumed full control as official promoter. Their first move? Removing the paywall. The entire championship would now be streamed live and free on YouTube—restoring global accessibility and breathing life back into the fanbase.

But the biggest surprise was yet to come: the FIA announced the return of Andrew Coley and Dan Rooke to the commentary booth, joined by 2019 World RX runner-up Andreas Bakkerud as an expert analyst and paddock reporter. The announcement was met with widespread celebration and marked a significant step toward restoring the series’ identity.

As momentum built ahead of the KymiRing round in Finland, another challenge emerged. Hansen Motorsport—one of rallycross’s most respected teams—announced they would not participate due to unresolved issues with a major partner. The paddock braced for a significant absence. However, intense behind-the-scenes negotiations delivered an unexpected but inspiring outcome. CE Dealer Team—powered by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) and PWR Group—stepped in to support their long-time rivals. In a powerful show of unity and shared commitment to the sport, their backing enabled Hansen Motorsport to compete after all. The moment served as a testament to the resilience and camaraderie that define World RX at its best.

For World RX to reclaim its former heights, one reality remains unavoidable: costs must come down. The FIA is already addressing this through the forthcoming 2027 World Rally Championship regulations, designed to foster manufacturer involvement and possibly facilitate crossover with World RX. Among the key proposals: a switch to Rally2-based cars, more flexible bodywork regulations, and a cost cap—all of which aim to boost grid numbers and level the playing field.

Former World RX stars like Krisztián Szabó and Anton Marklund have expressed interest in returning—provided budget requirements become manageable. Currently, just eight cars make up the top-tier grid under Balance of Technologies (BoT) regulations, but with financial reform, the field could grow significantly.

Wildcard entries could also offer another path to reinvigorating the grid. The idea of inviting high-profile drivers such as Kalle Rovanperä or even Fernando Alonso for guest appearances was explored by the former commercial rights holder. Arne Dirks, former RX Promoter CEO confirmed this, saying: “It is something we’ve discussed internally, and we’ve already seen many good drivers from different disciplines come into rallycross and quickly transfer their skills. We’ve noted comments from the likes of Fernando Alonso saying they would be keen to have a go, and the door is always open to them.”

Still, logistical challenges remain. As Kristoffersson Motorsport team boss Tommy Kristoffersson noted: “It’s a great idea, but also difficult. The next question will be: who has a car for the wildcard drivers? There aren't many teams that have a competitive extra car available.”

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Further complicating the competitive landscape are the current technical regulations that limit teams to just two significant updates—or "jokers"—per season. Kevin Hansen summed up the frustration: “This is the problem with the current regulations. You can’t change the complete philosophy because you use too many changes. It’s to save money, so you limit the number of updates you can do. We’re kind of stuck.” Despite those frustrations, Hansen remains enthusiastic about the future. When asked by Andrew Coley if Hansen Motorsport would build a new car under the 2027 regulations, his answer was emphatic: “100%. We will build the best bloody car on the grid. I just want a new car so badly.”

World RX has endured a decade of evolution—marked by highs, setbacks, reinventions, and now, renewal. With the FIA at the helm, free global streaming restored, and beloved voices returning to the commentary booth, the sport feels more grounded.

The foundations are in place. The vision is clear. The engines are warming. The runway is clear. It’s time for World RX to take flight once more.

From Childhood Fascination to Lifelong Passion: A Fan’s Hope for Formula 1’s Return to South Africa.

David Coulthard lapping the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit in the Red Bull RB7.
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

It was a sunny summer's afternoon when a little boy, playing with his toy ambulance, and police cars, re-enacted a police chase that he had seen on television, with his sirens blaring, a high-pitched sound off in the distance briefly caught his attention, but he continued playing. As the sound persisted, it piqued his interest, so much so, that he picked up his toy cars, and took slow steps to investigate where this sound was coming from. He isolated the sound to the living room, and with every step, the sound got louder and louder.

Turning the corner, and entering the living room, he looked at his father. No, Dad’s not making that loud noise! He then turned towards the television that his father had been watching. He then saw something that he'd never seen before, unusual-looking cars. Cars that looked nothing like his ambulance and police car. What were these strange-looking cars, he thought, as they swept through corners at incredible speeds? 

So, fascinated by what he had seen, he sat on the ground before his father and began to watch along. Looking at his father with a level of curiosity, as one car caught his attention—a red car. He asked, "Dad, what is that red car?" His father replied, "That’s a Ferrari." It was a name he had never heard before. He bombarded his father with questions—who, what, where, when, why, and how—trying to understand the sport his father enjoyed every weekend.

After the race, he rushed to his room and re-enacted what he had seen on television. His cars once limited to cops and rescue scenarios, now screamed around an imaginary track, much to the annoyance of his family and neighbors.

As the next race weekend approached, his father asked, "Son, would you like to watch the next Formula One race?" He immediately stood up and shouted, "Yes!" It’s safe to say, his flame for Formula 1 was ignited.

Over time, his passion for Formula One grew to a point where missing a single Grand Prix was never an option. Formula One effectively became life for him, but the realization of ever attending a Formula One Grand Prix on South African soil was an ever-distant dream.

Having conducted further research, he learned that, South Africa last hosted a Formula One Grand Prix in 1993 at the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit, but the championship has never returned. So, to follow the sport, he’d have to watch every race on the national television broadcaster, the SABC (free-to-air), but things soon changed in the late 2000s when Formula One moved to pay-TV service, MultiChoice. A year, that proved quite tough for him. How would he be able to watch the sport that he was so passionate about? Could he continue to feed his hunger for F1? These questions were soon answered when the SABC aired delayed broadcasts of the Formula One Grand Prix at 11pm on Sunday evenings, which he stayed up for and enjoyed, but later resorted to watching these Grand Prix with his uncle and dad, as at the time, it was not feasible to subscribe to MultiChoice and stay up late on a school evening. But nothing could break his passion. He searched libraries for books on F1 and even asked neighbors for the latest newspapers to gather as much information as possible.

A collection of the Cape Times season booklets.

One afternoon, he discovered that the Cape Times newspaper published a season guide booklet with handy information on teams and broadcast times. It became somewhat of a hobby, to collect every season’s booklet. But, sadly, after the 2016 season, those booklets were no longer published. And, as time evolved, to continue watching Formula One, his father had to subscribe to DStv. 

His hero is seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher.
PHOTO CREDIT: Scuderia Ferrari 

He could not wait to get home from school to read more about Formula One, and one day, to his surprise, he received a school presentation assignment, titled “My hero?” which, he was so excited about, and instantly knew who he’d use as his hero. A driver, who to him, was an unstoppable force, Michael Schumacher. Finally, he could speak about something, he was so passionate about. His fellow classmates chose footballers, and so on. But, nothing could stop him from presenting about his Ferrari hero. He stood with confidence in front of the classroom, handing out leaflets and images, about F1 and Ferrari. He never felt so confident before and as soon as the presentation started, he was stopped for exceeding his allotted time. A week later, he was informed that he received an A+ for the presentation, one could say that his passion achieved greatness just like his hero.  

One afternoon flicking through the local newspaper, he found an interesting article, that announced that the South African Grand Prix Corporation (Pty) Ltd intended to bid to build a Formula One race circuit near Cape Town's International Airport at an estimated cost of R1 billion ($137.8 million). His excitement soared, and he tracked any updates. 

Then he heard on Good Hope FM (radio station) that Red Bull Racing was bringing a Formula 1 car to Cape Town for a Showrun at Killarney International Raceway. Overwhelmed with excitement, he checked his season guide and saw a scheduling conflict with the Australian Grand Prix. Torn between watching the race and attending the Showrun, he formulated an argument to convince his father that both were possible. Skeptically, his father agreed to the plan. He woke up early to watch the Grand Prix, which Sebastian Vettel won. And, shortly, after 10am, he, his father, and sister set off to the Killarney Raceway, with only one thing on his mind, and that was seeing a Formula One car in the flesh. 

Upon arrival, he was awestruck, seeing the Red Bull posters at every turn. He couldn’t contain his excitement, so much so, that he immediately opened the car door before it stopped. He walked with such a pace that nothing or no one could distract him from seeing the Red Bull RB7. Entering the pit building, he navigated through a crowd of people, made his way to the front railing, and finally laid eyes on a Formula 1 car. He couldn’t believe his eyes, pinching himself. No, this is real, he thought! The team mechanics worked on the car and also engaged with the audience showing off the steering wheel, and talking them through the processes of warming up a Formula 1 car. Overwhelmed, he captured as many photos and videos as possible. It was an afternoon, that left a gigantic smile on his face—his dream of seeing an F1 car in person had come true.

Neel Jani driving the Red Bull Racing RB7 out of the pit garage at Killarney Raceway.

The sound of the V8 engine lingered in his mind for days. He imagined what 20 of these cars would sound like racing in South Africa. Then, news broke that the Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) intended to host Formula One in the city’s Green Point precinct. His excitement was immeasurable, but he also knew it would be a massive undertaking.

For him, living in Cape Town, with the prospects of a Grand Prix just a few minutes drive away, filled him with a glimmer of hope, but as the days and months passed, it became evident that these talks stalled. 

As time evolved, he turned to social media for the latest Formula 1 updates, as it proved to be the quickest medium to gain access to news, teams, and drivers. He began to engage with like-minded F1 fans, and a few years down the line, he met, an icon of Formula 1 in South Africa, Sasha Martinengo, a man who not only hosted Absolute F1 but also anchored the pre-and-post race coverage in South Africa. 

Martinengo’s knowledge of the sport impressed him when on Ballz Visual Radio, presenter Disi Fensham, formulated a question-and-answer session, which he answered with absolute certainty. Not a single answer was incorrect. Something that he thought was so impressive. 

Knowledge is power, and he continued to learn, more and more about Formula One consuming as much content as he could.

Then came the crushing blow: The Kyalami Grand Prix circuit was up for auction. He learned that a property developer intended to purchase the circuit and demolish its history. But, news soon broke that Porsche South Africa’s CEO Toby Venter saved the circuit. Thank You, Toby, he whispered! 

The Kyalami Grand Prix circuit after the 2015 upgrades.

Under new ownership, the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit underwent extensive facility upgrades in May 2015, and upon completion achieved FIA Grade 2 certification. An exciting, moment because South Africa could finally host some international championships, like the FIA World Endurance Championship, and the Intercontinental GT Challenge. 

His excitement was reignited when talks to bring Formula 1 back to South Africa in 2023 surfaced. Glued to social media, in the hope, he’d see any updates, he learned that F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and his delegation visited Kyalami, which to him signaled serious discussions. However, for various reasons, the deal fell through, and once again, the dream was dashed.

In the hope that he’d somehow find out how close South Africa actually came to hosting Formula 1, he discovered a blog post on Slipstream SA, where MSA Chairperson and FIA Senate Member Anton Roux revealed that a deal “was incredibly close. I think everything was agreed.” 

So close, and yet so far. But, hopefully, someday it could be a reality. Becoming more involved with Formula 1, he began to receive the latest news via e-mail, and noticed an interesting subject line ‘the Soweto Grand Prix’. He opened his laptop to learn that there was a new bid. But, upon further investigation, it seemed somewhat distant, because, like the Cape Town Grand Prix bid, roads would have to be upgraded, etc. as it would be a street circuit. 

As Formula One’s popularity began to grow, more and more countries placed bids to host the premier racing series, but none of them were in Africa. So, he hoped that one day, Africa or South Africa, could finally return to the calendar. 

In 2024, the newly elected coalition government, named ‘the Government of National Unity’, appointed a new Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister. The new Minister, Gayton McKenzie was quick to grab the attention of all motorsport fans when he replied to a question about Formula 1 in South Africa on social media platform X (formally known as Twitter), to which, he replied: "[…] my term will be a failure if I don’t bring one of the biggest sporting tourist events to South Africa which is F1."

During the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, Minister Gayton McKenzie took to X sharing that he had meetings with both Stefano Domencali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, saying: "Just completed a very important meeting with Stefano Domenicali, Formula One Group CEO. We are one step closer to bringing it to South Africa."

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie with Panyaza Lesufi (Premier of Gauteng) with Toby Venter, CEO of Kyalami Grand Prix circuit (outside right) and Willie Venter (left alongside McKenzie).
PHOTO CREDIT: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.

With the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture eager to bring Formula One back to South Africa, the now all-grown-up kid’s hopes and beliefs were restored, as more and more people began to talk about the reality of Formula 1 in South Africa. 

A few weeks after the Minister’s social media remarks, a new Formula 1 bid came to the fore, "the Wakanda City Grand Prix”, which stated that “the centerpiece of the future smart city in the Eastern Cape. Styled on the likes of Dubai, Singapore, and Monaco, Wakanda will be developed on an idyllic 20,000-hectare beachfront site near Sunday’s River. The idea is to have Ferrari and Safari-themed parks, Hollywood and Disney-type movie studios, and a marina lagoon resort in typical African style."

To him, the prospect of a new purpose-built circuit in South Africa was such a thrilling idea, but as much as it sounds incredible, could it actually be a reality? He had his doubts!

The Sport, Arts and Culture Minister created so much hype in the country, as he attended various sporting and motorsport events, where he was asked about Formula One returning to South Africa. And, at a spinning event, he spoke to Lallies F1 and said: “I can tell you this, F1 is definitely coming (to South Africa). F1 told us they’re keen to come, they told us what they’ll need to come, and we are going to give them what they need to come.” He went on further to add that “there’s still a big fight at the moment. Is it Cape Town, or is it Joburg? That decision has not been taken.”

With a Minister hungry to bring Formula One back to South Africa, he asked himself the question. Should he believe the Minister? Because making a statement, versus reality is often quite far apart. His response was: ‘Yes because the Minister is a passionate motorsport fan like I am.’

Further bold steps came when the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie announced the formation of a Bid Steering Committee (BSC) to oversee and select a promoter, city, and track for a formal F1 bid.

Amid this, the CEO of the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit, Toby Venter revealed that the 4,522-kilometre circuit will undergo upgrades to achieve FIA Grade 1 certification, allowing it to host F1 races. "By the end of 2025, Kyalami will be F1 certified," Venter said.

Following on from the appointment of the BSC, the Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) announced the revival of their bid to host Formula One in the Green Point Sport Tourism Precinct, in Cape Town. 

Scrolling through social media, he saw that there was a hive of articles, about which South African city should host Formula One, quite an exciting thought. Further news reached him, that Minister McKenzie announced an extension to the submission deadline for the Request for Expression of Interest (RFEQI) for interested parties in South Africa’s Formula 1 Grand Prix bidding process from 31 January 2025 to 18 March 2025. 

A few days later, he learned that the Minister went on the record with Bloomberg.com, stating that South Africa plans to submit its bid in May (2025) to host Formula 1 as early as 2027 and that he has also spoken to potential sponsors to help raise $50 million to fund the bid.

With a Ministerial-backed initiative, a dedicated bid committee, and Kyalami’s FIA certification on the horizon, hope is stronger than ever. Was South Africa finally on the brink of hosting Formula One after over 30 years? For the boy who grew up with a passion for the sport, the dream never faded. And now, more than ever, it feels within reach.