Africa has a rich Formula One history. It has even had a world champion in Jody Scheckter, although whether or not the continent should claim this title could be disputed.
Jody Scheckter was the Formula One world champion in 1979 for Ferrari (2.24). He is technically the only African driver to ever win the world championship.
However, Scheckter won the championship as a white South African during apartheid and at that time there was a worldwide sporting boycott of South Africa since that event. Whether or not one feels that Africa can claim this achievement, Scheckter’s brilliance was an example of the talent that exists on the continent.
Barriers for African Drivers
There are significant barriers for African drivers. Motorsport is expensive and many African countries lack infrastructure and funding. Additionally, Formula One teams often recruit drivers from Europe or South America. This limits opportunities for African talent. However, initiatives are underway to develop motorsport in Africa.
Motorsport Development in Africa
South Africa hosted Formula One races for decades. The Kyalami Circuit is one of the most iconic tracks. However, Formula One left the continent in the 1990s.
Formula E in Cape Town has showcased Africa’s potential while Rwanda also wants to host Formula One. Efforts to bring it back have gained momentum, and this sport returning to the continent could open doors for African drivers.
At present, Kyalami looks likely to get Formula One at some point. South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie recently announced South Africa’s Formula One Bid Steering Committee in a press conference at the historic circuit. Red Bull recently hosted an event in Johannesburg which saw former Grand Prix driver David Coulthard drive a Formula One car.
With South Africa in pole position to host a Grand Prix and Rwanda in the mix, it is highly likely that Africa’s interest in Formula One will rise even further.
The Future of African Talent
The rise of global academies offers hope with programmes like the FIA’s Girls on Track aiming to diversify the sport. African drivers could benefit from such initiatives.
There is also growing interest in grassroots motorsport. Karting championships in countries like Kenya and Nigeria are gaining popularity. These could produce the next generation of talent.
Africa has yet to produce a Formula One World Champion under inclusive conditions. Jody Scheckter remains the continent’s only title winner. However, his legacy is complex.
Barriers still exist for African drivers. Yet, growing investment in motorsport development provides hope. With time, Africa could see a new champion rise. Those who love online sports betting may soon see more African drivers in Formula One.
