1. The Department’s decision to look at the feasibility of undertaking to host the Formula One (F1) is informed by several strategic considerations. Firstly, the prestigious event was last hosted in Africa more than 30 years ago, notwithstanding its popularity in the continent and South Africa. Secondly, motorsport is still viewed as the preserve of the elite, and thirdly, it is not accessible to the majority of South Africans. The Department intends to utilize the hosting of Formula One (F1) to serve as a catalyst for addressing and changing the above.
(a)&(b). As part of planning to host the Formula One, the Department is working with Motorsport South Africa to develop and implement a Legacy Programme that would, among other things, focus on the promotion and development of Motorsport in the country through training and skills development as well as other related or relevant activities.
c). The aim is to ensure that at least a five-year hosting agreement is concluded for the hosting of the Formula One, hopefully even longer. This would enable the country to exploit and unlock the potential socioeconomic benefits. An event like the Formula One stimulates several economic sectors beyond sport. These include the tourism and hospitality sector, logistics services, the construction sector, eventing, arts, culture and entertainment.