R6.7bn Formula 1 Circuit Proposed for Western Cape With 2031 Target

R6.7bn Formula 1 Circuit Proposed for Western Cape With 2031 Target. Blue Mountain Racing (BMR) has unveiled plans for a proposed R6.7 billion Formula 1-standard circuit in the Swartland region of the Western Cape, with the privately funded project targeting the possibility of hosting a Grand Prix by 2031.

BMR chair Neal Froneman announced the proposal at the annual Swartland Mayoral Breakfast in Cape Town on 22 September.

The proposed circuit would be designed to FIA Grade 1 standards and form part of a 600-hectare motorsport and mixed-use development. BMR has made initial contact with Formula 1 and MotoGP as it develops the project.

The proposed precinct would be designed to operate throughout the year, with plans potentially including a conference and events centre, hospitality and residential developments, an automotive hub with engineering and testing facilities, a driving academy, an automotive skills development programme and a karting facility.

Froneman said the proposed location would provide an alternative to a street circuit in Cape Town while remaining close to the city, airport, hospitality facilities and tourism attractions.

BMR also plans to incorporate local participation into the development. This includes recruiting and training motorsport marshals from surrounding communities. According to BMR, a Grand Prix requires between 700 and 1,000 trained marshals.

The organisation has identified communities including Malmesbury, Abbotsdale, Kalbaskraal, the greater Chatsworth area, Atlantis and Saldanha Bay as potential sources for recruitment and training.

BMR said the development could create opportunities in sectors including hospitality, transport, security, construction and small businesses during construction and once the precinct becomes operational.

Swartland Municipality executive mayor Alderman Harold Cleophas said the proposed development could have a significant impact on the region and that the municipality would continue engaging with BMR.

BMR said the proposal had received interest and in-principle support from several South African companies. It is continuing discussions with potential commercial, financial and strategic partners.