[imagesource: Kyalami Circuit]

So close, yet so far.

At the peak of the hype in July, it really did look like South Africa would land a spot on the 2023 Grand Prix calendar.

Sadly, that was not to be and confirmation came in late August that Kyalami Circuit would not host our first Formula One race in three decades.

2024 is now being targeted and it remains to be seen whether that bid gathers speed in the coming weeks and months.

In a recent segment, Carte Blanchetook stock of what comes next:

Ours is a country with a deep love of motorsports – from the first Grand Prix in East London in the 1930s to the iconic Kyalami Circuit in 1993.

…Then there are the fans, like Hammanskraal sculptor Hendrik Chebanga, who has crafted intricate vehicles to celebrate his life-long passion for racing (and for Hamilton).

If Formula 1 does return to the continent, it would call Kyalami home. So, what does it take to host this global event, and why did it not work out for 2023? And might there be good news for fans about 2024 with negotiations already underway in London?

We can, at least, write off so-called industry insiders who claimed that we would host a 2023 race.

This time around, circumspection and idling in first gear until we hear something official is perhaps the better approach.

Take it away, Derek:

[source:carteblanche]