SOUTH AFRICA is ready to host the much sought F1 race, provided the infrastructure is improved, pointed out David Coulthard, a former Red Bull Racing driver and a 13-time Grand Prix winner.
He was speaking ahead of the RedBull Showrun, held in the bustling Sandton, along the iconic Katherine Street, that was transformed into a roaring motorsport arena, with the Oracle Red Bull Racing RB7.
Young and old, of all races, graced the spectacle as madly in love 25 000 motorsports enthusiasts, enjoyed the high-speed runs, burnouts and doughnuts, as the sound of the RB7’s engine, which produces 750 horsepower reached up to 18 000 RPM, thanks to a beautiful sunshine weather, on Sunday.
Yes, you might have seen this famous car being airlifted during the week from Yeoville, Jhb to Kyalami race track, Midrand.
“It’s always special to bring Formula 1 to the streets and engage with fans in such an up-close and personal way. Driving the RB7 here in Johannesburg was incredible—the energy from the crowd was electrifying,” said Coulthard after completing his first run. “The enthusiasm for motorsport in South Africa is palpable, and it’s a privilege to be part of that excitement,” says the equally excited Coulthard, carrying the SA flag on his back.
“Yes, talks with other African countries are taking shape to host the F1, but SA has raised the bar higher considering the preparations and resources that took place ahead of this spectacle,” he agreed.
SA is experiencing high unemployment just like any State; but with the hosting of F1 this will make a huge economical contribution, considering motorsport is huge in this country, says Coulthard.
Aside from Coulthard’s breathtaking performance, the event featured an array of spectacular local and international side acts that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats throughout the day.
German drift sensation Elias Hountondji, one half of the famous ‘Red Bull Driftbrothers’, showcased his world-class drifting skills in a series of heart-pounding stunts. Hountondji, who is not only a professional drifter but also a trained aerospace engineer, thrilled fans with his precise control and daring manoeuvres on the tight city circuit.
Local spinners Samkeliso “Sam Sam” Thubane, Vaatjie and Katjia wowed the crowds with their tyre-burning antics and Lithuanian motorbike stunt rider Arūnas ‘Aras’ Gibieža also took to the streets.
“We are thrilled to host this phenomenal event, which undoubtedly put Johannesburg on the global map as a hub for exciting experiences,” says Dada Morero, the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg.
“Our strategic objective is to demonstrate the city’s capabilities in hosting major events, ensuring the safety and security of all attendees, and providing municipal services to support the event’s seamless execution.”
The City will continue to partner with various stakeholders to position the city as a destination of choice, says the Mayor.
Dr Junaid Hoosen, who also brought family to the spectacle, agreed that SA is ready to host much sought Formula 1 on our shores, because of vast resources, skills, infrastructure and beautiful weather, as he pointed out at the jubilant crowd.
Tourism sport is one of our key pillars within the City; and we’re happy we hosted this free-incident event with flying colours, meaning all resources were put into place to welcome thousands of motoring fans to the City of Gold, remarked City Manager at City of Joburg- Floyd Brink, who also brought his family along.
“Talks on hosting the F1 began years’ ago, but with the new minister of Sport now pushing this envelope further; we’re crossing our fingers it will eventually happen, says Brink clad in brown track-suits.
The Red Bull Showrun in Johannesburg was part of a global series of events that bring Formula 1 to fans in unique city locations. Over the years, Red Bull has taken the thrill of F1 to cities like Cape Town, Tokyo, and Guadalajara, allowing audiences who may not typically have access to live races a chance to experience the sport’s magic firsthand.
Comedians of note Mpho Popps and Goliath kept fans on stitches with their wittiness having alight from a taxi, that was ‘escorted’ by a rousing BMW Gusheshe…
Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie was seen hanging around Kyalami Race track boss and Coulthard in the hospitality box.
Top Image Redbull (Smoke but no mirrors. F1 legend David Coulthard gave fans a spin on the Katherine Str, Sandton on Sunday, as his RB7 car shows off smoke, a smell of tyres & clutches).
