Zanzibar wants to make bid for Formula 1: help sought from Fisichella

Formula 1 is 'hot' and numerous promoters want to host a Grand Prix. Last week, Osaka already joined the long list of interested parties and now Zanzibar - belonging to Tanzania - can be added. The African island is serious and has even enlisted the help of Giancarlo Fisichella.

Released document shows that Tanzania's Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) has released €500 million to bring in the project. Mt that money, a new circuit must first be laid down. An area of 2.5 km² has already been set aside in the south-western part of the island where the circuit is to be located. Former F1 driver Fisichella has been appointed to oversee the technical aspects of the circuit.

The intention is that the circuit - and all the necessary facilities around it - should be ready towards the end of 2027. An F1 race at Tanzania would make nice pictures anyway, but it is unclear whether the project has a chance of success. Money does not really seem an issue with ZIPA support, but the Formula 1 calendar is already bulging.

South Africa

However, Liberty Media did express its desire to also host a Grand Prix on the African continent in the foreseeable future. For that, Kyalami in South Africa seemed the biggest candidate. An F1 race also seemed to be planned there, but it has been postponed several times now and the question is whether it will succeed in the future.