Zanzibar, a scenic gem in the Tanzanian archipelago, is gearing up to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in a significant move towards reintroducing the sport to Africa. The project, in its nascent stage, has already garnered significant traction, with ex-F1 race victor Giancarlo Fisichella providing his technical expertise for the proposed circuit’s development.
The Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) has pledged a hefty €500 million fund to this formidable undertaking, offering substantial financial backing to this potential game-changer in international motorsports. The project received a significant boost with the land allocation for the circuit in November of the previous year, setting the stage for the creation of a state-of-the-art track.
Cristian Bortolato and COO Enrico Sartini, veterans in the industry, are spearheading the track’s creation. The ambitious plan outlines the commencement of construction in 2025, with the goal of completion by the end of 2027. However, Zanzibar’s dream of hosting an F1 race hinges on acquiring the FIA Grade One license, which requires additional funding.
Formula 1 has been mulling a return to Africa, a region it has not graced since the 1993 South African Grand Prix. Key figures in the sport, such as Lewis Hamilton and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, have shown enthusiasm for bringing the sport back to the continent. Additionally, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has voiced his support.
While talks continue about a potential return to South Africa’s Kyalami circuit, Zanzibar’s bid adds another layer to the narrative of an African Grand Prix, said Domenicali. This initiative is promising and could open doors for the growth of Formula 1 in Africa.
Zanzibar’s bid comes at a time when Formula 1 is expanding its calendar, with a record 24 rounds in 2024 and a new Spanish Grand Prix set for 2026 in Madrid. Incorporating an African race into the schedule presents the challenge of managing an already packed calendar and potentially negotiating expiring circuit contracts.
The project has garnered significant attention and anticipation among motorsport enthusiasts in Africa. The prospect of hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Zanzibar has ignited excitement across the continent, said racing fan Samuel Masumba. It would be a historic moment and a chance for African talent to shine on the international stage.
Should Zanzibar succeed in securing the FIA Grade One license and complete the construction of a world-class circuit, it could pave the way for more African countries to enter the Formula 1 landscape. The potential return of Formula 1 to Africa represents an opportunity for the sport to tap into a vast market of passionate fans and unearth new talent.
However, the road to hosting an African Grand Prix is not without its challenges. F1 circuits require significant investment, both in terms of infrastructure and ongoing maintenance. Additionally, logistical considerations such as transportation, accommodation, and security will need to be addressed to ensure a successful event.
As Zanzibar sets its sights on hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix, motorsport enthusiasts eagerly await further updates on the progress of this ambitious endeavor. If successful, the inclusion of an African race in the Formula 1 calendar will not only be a momentous occasion for Zanzibar but also a step towards diversifying the sport and embracing its global appeal.
