Kyalami Comes to Project Motor Racing

10 Juin 2025

Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit stands as a revered landmark in motorsport history. Established in 1961, Kyalami has evolved significantly over the decades, but its rich legacy—hosting an array of prestigious international racing events and witnessing numerous memorable moments—has solidified it as one of the world’s premiere motor racing venues.

The original circuit layout—known for its exciting turns, high-speed straight, and challenging elevation (on a ridge 2,000 metres above sea level)—was a super-fast track. Notable corners such as Sunset, the Esses and the iconic Crowthorne at the end of the main straight challenged even the most experienced drivers.

Kyalami garnered international acclaim when it hosted the F1 South African Grand Prix in 1967. The race quickly became a favourite among drivers and fans alike, drawing large crowds eager to witness the world's best drivers.

The original circuit was significantly altered in the early 1990s, reducing its length to around 4.26 kilometres (2.65 miles). But that change did nothing much to slow down the track’s sad decline.

In 2015, recognising Kyalami’s historical value and potential, a significant refurbishment took place under new ownership, building new facilities, tweaking the layout, and modernising safety standards to align with FIA Grade 2 certification. This refurbishment rekindled the track’s global prominence, setting the stage for its return to international motorsport.

To say it was a minor miracle is to underplay the significance of that decision. Today, Kyalami is once again a celebrated motorsport venue.

The 21st-century also saw the revival of the 9-Hour race, a key round of the GT championship from 2019 onwards. This modern reincarnation quickly reclaimed its place as a global motorsport highlight, attracting premier GT racing teams and internationally acclaimed drivers, all vying to master one of the world's most revered and demanding circuits.

The contemporary Kyalami 9-Hour has not only rekindled interest in endurance racing on African soil but has also significantly bolstered the circuit’s international reputation. Competitors consistently highlight the unique challenges posed by the revised Kyalami's circuit layout.

The technical layout of the track requires exceptional balance and precision. Drivers often speak of the physicality required to keep competitive, emphasizing Kyalami’s distinction as a genuine test of skill, endurance, reliability, and strategy.

Now, get ready to test your skill at Kyalami, scanned, and waiting for you in Project Motor Racing.

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