Kyalami circuit will comply with FIA Grade 2 requirements.
Motorsport fans will rejoice at a number of substantial changes being effected at Kyalami circuit in Johannesburg. A small media group gathered at the country’s premier circuit earlier this week to be given a virtual tour of the proposed upgrades before savouring one emotional last lap behind the wheel of a Porsche Panamera Turbo.
Once the three stages have been complete, at an estimated cost of 100 Million Rand, Kyalami circuit will be accredited with a Grade 2 FIA rating. To the layman, Kyalami will be eligible to host all forms of international racing competition, with the exclusion of Formula One. However it’s clear that track days, driver training and corporate events will continue to be at the core of its sustainability.
Rendering of The Crocodiles
At the heart of the new business plan was the preservation of the circuit’s inherent strengths and to respect the special memories cherished by drivers and spectators. Frequent visitors to the circuit may have already noticed the security fences, the general clean-up of facilities and one very thorough coat of new paint.
In the next few months, Kyalami will go under a complete transformation that will make the circuit, and facilities within, a desirable venue for all. Initial plans include a complete resurface of the track and a widening of certain corners to promote overtaking. Legendary corner names like Crowthorne and Barbeque return – feeding off a longer 900 metre main straight– with The Crocodiles, Cheetah and Ingwe making up the latest set of corner names. It is estimated that the changes will add six seconds to the lap but permit a much higher top speed.
Rendering showing the new underpass
Spectators will find the improvements equally enjoyable. The infield bomas will be knocked down to provide an almost uninterrupted view and an entirely new PA system will replace the muffled crackles that have long frustrated spectators. Convenience upgrades include a bigger underpass, freshly tarred parking areas, new service roads and perhaps even the restoration of pit areas on the back straight.
Kyalami remains in demand despite its worsening condition and with these carefully considered renovations, the future has never looked so bright. The track is earmarked to re-open in September and will host its first competitive race series in the same month.
