Official thread of Cape Town's F1 Grand Prix bid.


http://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_winning-track.jpg

http://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_circle.jpghttp://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_greenpoint.jpghttp://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_out-stadium.jpghttp://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_waterfront.jpghttp://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/images/phocagallery/gallery/thumbs/phoca_thumb_l_waterfront2.jpg

RED BULL F1 SHOWCAR RUN MOVES TO KILLARNEY RACE TRACK ON SUNDAY, 27 MARCH

The Red Bull Racing F1 Showcar event has moved to Killarney Race Track to better accommodate the crowd capacity and showcase the true potential of the Formula One car at the home of the Western Province Motor Club.

On 1 January 1960, the Cape Grand Prix was held at Killarney. This was the first time the track and the Western Cape had a taste of Formula One. Now, for the first time in over 50 years, Red Bull Racing brings F1 back to Killarney.

Driving the Formula One car in Cape Town on Sunday 27 March is Swiss native, Neel Jani, who started his racing career at the age of 12 and has since joined Red Bull Racing as an F1 test driver assisting Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber to qualify P1 and P2 at the Melbourne GP in 2010.

Join the Red Bull Racing Formula One Team on the 27th March 2011 for their first time in Cape Town as they take to the track for a day of F1 speed and sound.

Red Bull Racing Formula One Showcar Run in Cape Town:
Venue: Killarney Race Track
Date: Sunday, 27th March 2011
Time: 13h00
Entrance Fee: Free of charge
Visit www.redbull.co.za (http://www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za/www.redbull.co.za) for more information.

Rationale



Economically more viable than a purpose-built track
Private sector funding / investment
Land could be better utilised for housing and industry
Once-off upgrade of existing roads with ongoing maintenance
Inclusion and full utilisation of the Cape Town Stadium
Broadcast appeal - TV camera angles will capture the natural assets of Cape Town
Favourable support for a street race

Key Strategies


Full utilisation of the Cape Town Stadium
Education, Career Development and Motorsport Academy as a Legacy Project
Business and Investment into Motor Industry in South Africa
Social Awareness Campaigns
Hosting of FIA-regulated events
Development of another attraction within the Green Point Sport Tourism Precinct

First investor presentation with Investec.

For images
https://www.facebook.com/capetowngrandprix

eKJwdrPXvUA

Street track > Purpose built track

by far.

^^ why? Street tracks, as was seen in Durban with the A1, while they sound great, the massive disruptions to the city in the lead up to the event, during and for weeks after is difficult.

Let's look at the reality for a second.

There is no money and will never be money for a R4 billion race track, so all the talk of it being better is perhaps pointless when the only solution that can actually be delivered within 5 years without the risk of massive debt is a street race.

Yes, we may all prefer this and that, and the lessons of Durban are there to see, but the guy heading up the bid has been doing 10-12 years of research, so one would imagine, since I have yet to see this research, that he has considered what happened in Durban as part of his research.


The street race will only ask more questions, as being event ready, and being able to "switch-on" and off for events without a massive task being undertaken each time e.g. Fan Walk.

That said, a street race would be but 1 part of the next few years of development in the Green Point Precinct.

Outside of this

R40 million for the promenade
The Tea Room and Eco Centre
The commercial/retail developments of the CT Stadium
Somerset Precinct/Casino/Apartments
Green Point Athletic track refurbishment
Future IRT stations
Potential tennis arena
Resurfacing of all the sports fields (already underway).

The bid however cannot wait around for the City to decide on what it wants to do, and so must proceed without it. If anything, they have timing on their sides, and unlike any previous bids, an actual meeting with Ecclestone lined up.

When will they have the meeting with Ecclestone?

Not sure but maybe ask them

www.capetowngrandprixsa.co.za

I think it would be great in cape town. Beutiful scenery, would be better with a purpose built track though. But like you said, the debt. It would certainly be of benefit to S.Africa me thinks, F1 should be global, every corner, end to end, side to side.
Also does that track run through the stadium? I think that would be a fantastic addition. The S.African stadiums are very memorable and it would be an iconic part of the race.
Btw how many of you lot watched the Canadian grand prix? I love the wet tracks, makes it far more entertaining and more affectionate to the eyes. Probebly the best grand prix I have seen since 2007

EWN Exclusive: Cape Town in line to host Grand Prix
Jean Smyth | 23 min





Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone has exclusively told Eyewitness News Cape Town is in line to host a Grand Prix within two years.

For over a decade various reports have indicated a return to South Africa for the sport, but according to the F1 supremo a deal is now weeks away from being signed.


Ecclestone was unable to give precise details, but the location of a proposed street circuit points toward the Waterfront and Green Point area.


The South African Grand Prix was last hosted at Kyalami in 1993. It was won by Frenchman Alain Prost.
According to Ecclestone, negotiations for its return are in the final stages.


”I’m hoping we can make a decision as soon as our lawyers have a good look at them... within the next couple of weeks,” he said.


He said that it would be good to be back in South Africa as they were very happy when it was here in the past.

BEST NEWS EVER!!! This is will do so much for Cape Town!! :)

BEST NEWS EVER!!! This is will do so much for Cape Town!! :)

Let's not get too excited.

Exciting stuff!

But let's see how this pans out. We've had some false starts before.

If it does work it, it'll certainly be amazing news.

CT F1 bid needs $100million
Alicia Pillay | 3 Hour(s) Ago



The company bidding to bring the Formula One to Cape Town on Tuesday said it needs at least US$100million from investors to make it a reality.



F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone told Eyewitness News in an exclusive interview that a contract to host a race in the Mother City is being finalised.



Cape Town Grand Prix South Africa has confirmed it is in talks with both Ecclestone and F1 management.
Chief Communications Officer Esther Henderson said the costs of hosting a race are astronomical.


“The annual license fee that we need to pay to Formula One amounts to US$40 million. [For] Infrastructure capital [we] could be looking at US$15 million and then there is working capital,” she said.
Henderson said government's backing is essential to ensure investors come on board.


“We have investors that are interested but it is a catch 22 situation because in order to give our investors security that this is happening, we need our national government’s support,” she said.
She added they need to make sure everything is in place so investors will want to spend their money.


“We are in a position to pursue the plan of viable race tracks and we need to produce and facilities which are required by Formula One management and other imperative studies such as the economic impact studies,” she said.
(Edited by Lisa Bartlett)

Haha true Mo, but I like F1 and it has such great potential for Cape Town's economy..

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l103/eduardm2/utf-8BSU1HLTIwMTEwNzA2LTAwMDM5LmpwZw.jpg

‘Cape Town Grand Prix by 2013’

July 6 2011 at 02:29pm
By Murray Wiliams
Comment on this story (http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/f1-grand-prix/cape-town-grand-prix-by-2013-1.1094505#comments_start)
http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/iol-mot-pic-jul6-cape-town-gp-circuit-2-1.1094504%21/image/4071049516.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/4071049516.jpg INLSA
An artists impression of a Monaco-style Grand Prix roaring through the streets of Cape Town, taking in some of the citys most recognisable landmarks. Picture: Salience

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said Cape Town could host a Grand Prix “within two years” – causing huge renewed excitement in the city.
In the past few years, three bids have emerged from Cape Town: one fpr a new track near the airport, a second on the West Coast near Atlantis and a third on Cape Town’s streets, in the style of the Monaco Grand Prix.
The third bid, which would see cars zooming through Green Point, is believed to be the front-runner.
In an interview on Tuesday, Ecclestone said there had been “lot of discussions” about bringing Formula One back to Africa, over the past few years.
But “we may be a little bit closer than we have been in a long time”.
Ecclestone said their lawyers were examining possible contracts which could be finalised “within the next couple of weeks”.
If concluded, these agreements could see a Grand Prix in Cape Town “within two years”.
“As soon as we get the contracts in place, it will go from there quickly, I hope,” Ecclestone said.
He would not disclose which of the Cape Town bids had piqued his interest, but it is known that if a two-year time frame is being considered, it would be unlikely that either the airport or the West Coast bids could build the required circuits in time.
So it’s likely that bid Ecclestone referred to was the one submitted by the company formally known as Cape Town Grand Prix SA.
It is understood that it was this Monaco-style street race that Ecclestone was referring to when he said: “This is the one that is serious, and I hope we can do something with this.”
But this remains speculation and Ecclestone refused to confirm any further details.
He did, however, say that Formula One would relish a return to South Africa, saying their previous races, held last in 1993, had “worked” for Formula One, and that “everyone was happy”.
A spokeswoman for Cape Town Grand Prix SA, Esther Henderson, said on Wednesday the company had appointed a consultant who had been in regular recent contact with Formula One officials.
“Our priority now is to meet minister of sport Fikile Mbalula,” she said. This was because any successful bid would require government backing.
“We have a master plan for a circuit and track, we have an economic impact study and an environmental study. It is these that we now need to submit to the government,” she said.
Cape Town Grand Prix SA has proposed September 2013 for the first race which, while optimistic, according to Henderson, would correspond with Ecclestone’s mention of “within two years”.
The total funding for the bid would be in the region of $100 million. It is understood that the bid company can only begin trying to raise this sum once it has a contract with Formula One and the government’s support.
The company’s proposed circuit is 5.3km long and would pass some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, such as Cape Town Stadium, Table Bay Harbour and the V&A Waterfront.
Drivers would roar along the track with Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the ocean as backdrops.
Henderson said in 2010: “Green Point is ideal for a street circuit like the one in Monaco because we have so many beautiful natural sights in the area. So while Monaco is the ‘French Riviera’ we can have the ‘African Riviera’ in Cape Town.”
It is known that the City of Cape Town administration, while under the mayorship of Dan Plato, also began research into the financial implications of a local Grand Prix, after a visit by Plato to Singapore, where the benefits of hosting such an event came under the spotlight. - Cape Argus

A poll up at futurecapetown.com Yay? or Nay?

F1 track may go through stadium

July 8 2011 at 12:42pm

http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/ca-f1-grand-prix-1.1095900%21/image/2656644584.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/2656644584.jpg .
FUTURE POSSIBILITY: An artists impression of the manner in which Cape Town Stadium could be used if the city hosts a Grand Prix Formula One race in 2013. The stadium is one of the options being considered. Picture: Salience

BRONWYNNE JOOSTE
Metro Writer
FORMULA One racing cars could be zooming in and out of the street-level entrances of Cape Town Stadium if the Mother City hosts a 2013 Grand Prix and uses the venue as a chicane to slow cars down on the seaside racecourse.
The inclusion of the stadium in the race is one of Cape Town Grand Prix SA’s ideas for the 2013 event, and it involves the use of the exit and entry points at street level as well as the use of the stadium’s seats so that spectators can watch the action at close quarters.
Esther Henderson, the company’s chief communications officer, explained that race cars would enter the stadium at one point, race through, and exit at another point.
“It (the track) will go through the stadium, and there are entry and exit points which are aligned with technical standards.
“There will be a chicane inside the stadium. The cars wouldn’t be going in at the highest speed. They would slow down as they go into the stadium. No major changes have to be made to the stadium.”
She said the stadium had a seating capacity of about 55 000, but with temporary seating it could accommodate more than 60 000.
However, the biggest adjustment would be lifting the pitch and laying tar in line with International Automobile Federation (FIA) standards, Henderson said. The FIA is the governing body for many racing events.
Once the three-day Formula One event ended, the tar would then be re-covered with the playing pitch, she explained.
Henderson said a similar idea had been applied to the Race of Champions, where the world’s best race car and motorcycle drivers compete in cities across the world.
In a DVD promoting the company’s bid to host the Grand Prix, it emerged that people favoured the idea of a street race over of a purpose-built race track.
The company claims that upgrading the city’s existing infrastructure to meet FIA standards would cost R670 million, compared with the R4 billion it would cost to a build a new track.
Another option, according to Henderson, was to have the racing route around the stadium. “Then the stadium itself becomes the grandstand,” she said.
There was renewed interest in the city hosting an F1 race this week, after comments from F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone on local radio. Ecclestone said Cape Town could host the glittering sports event within “two years”.
There are three bids in the pipeline: one aligned to a new track near the airport, another to a track on the West Coast, and the third in Green Point.
Cape Town Grand Prix SA has formally submitted a bid to F1 officials that is modelled on the Monaco Grand Prix, where the track is in Green Point, with Cape Town Stadium taking centre stage.
It is believed that this bid is the front-runner, given Ecclestone’s reference to a two-year time frame.
It is considered unlikely that tracks could be completed near the airport or along the West Coast in the allotted time.
Henderson said Ecclestone’s approach to the race was that the city should set an “amazing stage” and give spectators a “performance”.
“I’ve said that Cape Town is a very sexy location, it’s a gateway location… for broadcast. No matter where you position a camera, you will capture the city’s landmarks, marketing Cape Town,” she said.
The company had consulted with residents in surrounding areas, Henderson said “They are not averse to hosting an F1 race, so long as there is proper planning and consultation.”
She added that the residents could look forward to upgraded roads if the bid was successful.
And, since events would take place at weekends, the noise of revving cars would last for only about 16 hours over the racing weekend.
The company is set to meet Sports and Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula about the bid.
But councillor Beverley Schäfer – whose ward covers parts of Green Point, Mouille Point and Bantry Bay – said there had been no public consultation. Schäfer said some residents were concerned about noise and others had expressed concern about their safety before and after races.
Developing a track would cost a great deal of money, she said.
The city’s mayoral council member for tourism, Grant Pascoe, said hosting the event was in line with the city’s goal to “establish Cape Town as the events capital” of the country.
But he said the city had not yet been approached with a proposal to host the event, and could therefore not yet consider it.
“The proposal will have to go through all council processes, including public participation, to ensure that the views of the local residents are taken into consideration.
“We will also have to partner with the provincial and national governments to make this dream a reality.”
bronwynne.jooste@inl.co.za
See Page 11

Durban faced the same objection from beachfront residents re: A1 Grandprix, and eventually the city didn't re-bid for the event. If CT is considering the F1, I hope it has willpower to deal with the associated EIA issues and the Greenpoint Resident's Association...

-------------------


Friday Jul 08, 2011


Stadium warriors bid to halt Cape Town Grand Prix

They fought for years to prevent Cape Town Stadium being built on their doorstep, and now Green Point residents want to put the brakes on plans for a Grand Prix circuit outside their front doors.

Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone said this week in an interview with Eyewitness News that Cape Town could host a Grand Prix "within two years".

In the past few years, three bids have emerged: one on a new track near the airport, a second on the West Coast near Atlantis and a third on the streets, in the style of the Monaco Grand Prix.

The third bid, by Cape Town Grand Prix SA, which would see cars zooming through Green Point, is believed to be the front-runner.

Cape Town Grand Prix SA's proposed 5.3km circuit would pass recognisable landmarks, such as Cape Town Stadium, Table Bay Harbour and the V&A Waterfront.

A company spokeswoman said last year: "Green Point is ideal for a street circuit like the one in Monaco because we have so many beautiful natural sights in the area."

But today, councillor Beverley Schäfer - whose ward covers parts of Green Point, Mouille Point and Bantry Bay - said there had been no public consultation.

"Residents and ratepayers have not been part of the process. The city states that there hasn't been a consultation process," she said.

Schäfer said some residents were concerned about noise and others had expressed concern about their safety before and after races.

Developing a track would cost a great deal of money, Schäfer said. "And I don't believe our arterial roads are fit to host the expected 100 000 to 200 000 fans."

She said there were three old-age homes in the area of the proposed circuit, and she was concerned that the race noise would be "excruciating" for their residents.

The Green Point area had benefited from a massive cash injection during the World Cup, Schäfer said, and she believed any money for a Grand Prix could be better spent where development was needed.

"We are all for the event coming to Cape Town, but the money could be well spent elsewhere," she said.

Cape Argus


Posted at 07:20AM Jul 08, 2011 by Editor in Cities and Towns


http://www.iolproperty.co.za/roller/news/entry/stadium_warriors_bid_to_halt

STATEMENT BY COUNCILLOR GRANT PASCOE, MAYORAL COMMITTEE MEMBER FOR TOURISM, EVENTS AND MARKETING ON HOSTING THE F1 GRAND PRIX

MEDIA RELEASE
NO. 435 / 2011
07 JULY 2011


I have noted the speculation around hosting the Formula One Grand Prix in Cape Town. The possible hosting of the event is in line with this administration’s goal to establish Cape Town as the events capital of South Africa.

Events of this magnitude bring huge benefits for all Capetonians in the form of tourist Rands spent in our city, increased exposure, and investment in the city.

I look forward to working with all of the relevant stakeholders who will be instrumental in bringing the world’s premier motorsport event to Cape Town, should the plans to host the event succeed.

However, there is a long road ahead before this can be realised.

The City has not yet been approached with a proposal to host the Formula One Grand Prix in Cape Town. We will only consider the prospect of hosting the event once we have been presented with a proposal.

The proposal will then have to go through all Council processes, including public participation, to ensure that the views of the local residents are taken into consideration.

We will also have to partner with the Provincial and National governments to make this dream a reality.


END

ISSUED BY:
COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT, CITY OF CAPE TOWN

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
COUNCILLOR GRANT PASCOE
MAYORAL COMMITTEE MEMBER: TOURISM, EVENTS AND MARKETING
CITY OF CAPE TOWN
TEL: 021 400 1346 CELL: 082 748 3998

GERT BAM
DIRECTOR: SPORTS & RECREATION
CITY OF CAPE TOWN
TEL: 021 400 5190 CELL: 084 222 1242


2011/07/07

Oh god, really Beverely? Please prioritise the benefit of the entire city rather than only considering the interests of a few hundred people. They're old as well so of course they will be against it. They just want to live in peace and don't care of its outweighing benefits. But should we wait until there are no old people in greenpoint? Thats irrational. The benefits far outweigh their discomfiture for only a weekend.

Greenpoint is becoming the events centre of Cape Town. Why hinder its growth which has the possibility of bringing millions of rands to Cape Town, let alone first-class exposure for investments and tourism.

Just like Cape Town Stadium, they won't be able to stop it. Besides all street tracks erect noise-proof panels on each side of the tracks to minimise the sound.

'Grand Prix would rev up Cape Town earnings'
TUESDAY JUL 12, 2011

A Formula 1 grand prix race would mean a massive boost in tourism for Cape Town and help create a powerful social and economic presence for the city on the global stage.

Formula 1 head Bernie Ecclestone said earlier this week Cape Town could have a grand prix in two years.

An international sporting event like this would have huge tourist potential.

"It would bring a great deal of funding into the city economy," said Ian Neilson, the mayoral committee member for finance. He added that using a Formula 1 race to drive other ventures, such as a motor industry, would be an added advantage.

No comprehensive economic impact study has been done yet. However, a 2010 study by researchers published in the International Journal of Event and Festival Management based on Singapore's Formula 1 GP showed the possible outcomes of holding the event in Cape Town.

It was estimated that a grand prix season lasting two weeks usually drew an extra 50 000 tourists spending an average of R9 400 each. Overseas visitors stayed an average of five days instead of two or three and brought in R770 million in tourist revenues.

A Malaysian study by the group Linley in 2009 also reported that long-term planning resulted in more positive effects down the road, such as the destination being viewed as a place to invest in as well as stay in. There was also a strong correlation between repeat visitation and annual events.

"My hesitation is whether it can happen and the amount of money that it's going to cost," said Adrian Pheiffer, public relations officer at the Western Province Motor Club. Pheiffer also said a proposed World Rally Championship in Cape Town might compete for funding and city support.

Building a grand prix track would be the biggest cost, but one idea from Cape Town Grand Prix SA features a Monaco-style street race that would run through the Green Point area instead of operating in a fixed arena. In cities such as Singapore, street circuits still command high tourism rates.

According to the Singapore study, financial costs for a street circuit totalled R700m with the government picking up 60 percent of the bill. Some of this would be earned back through an accommodation levy and R850m in ticket sales.

Another R180m was spent on road work in Singapore, but the president of the Cape Town Chamber of Commerce, Michael Bagraim, said many of the necessary improvements were done for the soccer World Cup. These would mostly become upkeep costs once the infrastructure was in place.

He also said a track could be put up "quite cheaply", depending on the venue. The city, national government and private sector would all be involved in the decision.

One of the newest grand prix tracks, the Korean International Circuit in South Korea, cost R1.65bn and seats 130 000 spectators.

Abu Dhabi's new Yas Marina Circuit has a street course with four large grandstands seating about 41 000 people, costing around R8.6bn.

The Cape Town Grand Prix SA proposal predicts a cost of about R670m for the street circuit plan.

Informal talks are still in the works, says Neilson. Once an idea is put forward, the City of Cape Town will formally assess the economic impact and other factors before deciding whether or not to approve the event. Speculation has focused on the Green Point street track, but anything is possible at this point.

"Let's not presume anything," Neilson said.

Cape Argus

Source: IOL Property (http://www.iolproperty.co.za/roller/news/entry/grand_prix_would_rev_up)

Grand Prix SA responds to Green Point residents' complaints
WEDNESDAY JUL 13, 2011

Cape Town Grand Prix South Africa has hit back in response to complaints by Green Point residents of "a lack of consultation" regarding plans for a grand prix circuit in the area.

Last week, following news reports that Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone said that Cape Town could host a Grand Prix "within two years", the Cape Argus quoted Green Point ward councillor Beverley Schaefer as saying there had been no public consultation.

Schaefer, whose ward covers parts of Green Point, Mouille Point and Bantry Bay, said some residents were concerned about noise, while others had expressed concern for their safety before and after races.

But Cape Town Grand Prix SA (CTGPSA) spokeswoman Esther Henderson has hit back, explaining that while an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which includes a public participation process, still needed to be conducted, a "strategic stakeholder engagement process" was indeed under way.

Residents of the Green Point Sport Tourism Precinct and surrounding areas were identified as key stakeholders in the project.

Henderson said she had submitted a letter requesting a meeting with respective ratepayers and residents associations (RRAs), articulating clearly that they wanted to present a bid proposal, and to elicit feedback.

"Our request was met positively. Though we were advised against meeting with residents on a larger scale, it was deemed appropriate at this initial stage to meet the executive of the respective RRAs, who would in turn convey our intentions to the residents at their respective forums," she explained.

Meetings were held and it was agreed that once assessments were done, residents would be informed, on condition that "proper planning and consultation processes" were followed.

"Both parties agreed to pursue engagement as the project progresses," Henderson said.

Meanwhile, Schaefer said yesterday that the residents were not averse to the grand prix, but were insisting that the matter be handled "democratically".

As with all big events, residents simply wanted to be aware of what to expect in terms of noise levels, traffic congestion and other matters.

"Residents have made it clear that they are not against the event, because it could be hugely beneficial to the area. They just want the proper consultation processes," she said.

In the past few years, three bids have emerged: one on a new track near the airport, a second on the West Coast near Atlantis, and the third on the streets of the Green Point area, similar to the Monaco Grand Prix.

Cape Argus

Source: IOL Property (http://www.iolproperty.co.za/roller/news/entry/grand_prix_sa_responds_to)

Well to be quite clear, City officials have told Schaefer to change the approach. That's it, nothing else.

I know Bev, and she does good work, but I think the initial response was incorrect, and through Neilson and Pascoe, some sanity has prevailed i.e. let's see the full proposal and then give it the green light.

I've only been getting a green light/positive support from province, who are quite keen to fit this into the regional events strategy being formulated/finalized.

World Cup scores green winner

July 13 2011 at 11:03am

http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/ca-green-goal-4929-1.1098228%21/image/2025684417.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/2025684417.jpg INLSA
IMPRESSED: Premier Helen Zille, left, and Cape Town mayor Patricia de Lille sit among other delegates viewing a video at the Green Goal legacy report launch at the Cape Town Civic Centre yesterday. Picture: Melinda Stuurman

CLAYTON BARNES
Staff Writer
CAPE Town’s 2010 Green Goal project, implemented during the World Cup, will be used as a “green” benchmark for organisers of future mega sporting events.
So says Lorraine Gerrans, head of the city’s environmental and heritage management unit, who stressed that organisers of major sporting events in developing countries would be looking at South Africa, and particularly Cape Town, when it came to drawing up a “green” event strategy in the future.
Speaking during the launch of the 2010 Green Goal legacy report yesterday, Gerrans said her team was already assisting the World Cup organising committee in Brazil, host of the 2014 Fifa World Cup.
“The main aim of the Green Goal project was to mitigate the negative environmental impact of the games, and it was an overwhelming success. We managed to get people out of their cars and on to public transport. Instead of using their private vehicles, spectators used the fan walk,” she explained.
A total of 41 projects were implemented across a number of targets, which included:
lEnergy and climate change – to minimise the carbon footprint of the event.
l Water – to minimise the use of potable water and promote conservation of water.
l Integrated waste management – to reduce, re-use and recycle water.
l Transport, mobility and access – to promote energy-efficient and universally accessible mobility, and minimise air pollution.
l Landscaping and biodiversity – to promote indigenous landscaping.
According to the report, which was based on the monitoring and evaluation work undertaken by the NGO Sustainable Energy Africa, the Green Goal project exceeded the national targets for waste-to-landfill reduction, and the use of public and non-motorised transport.
Another important success, said Gerrans, was the manner in which waste management added to the general tourist appeal and fan experience.
The Cape Town Stadium design achieved an estimated 15 percent saving in electricity use, and a 27 percent reduction in water use.
Dual-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads and taps were installed, while spring water from Oranjezicht on Table Mountain was used to irrigate the Green Point Urban Park.
The sale of green electricity certificates compensated for an estimated 80 percent of the event’s carbon footprint, with projects such as the retro-fitting of street and traffic lights, energy-efficient floodlights at Philippi Stadium, and solar water heating for 540 low-income homes in Darling.


Western Cape Premier Helen Zille said Green Point residents benefited the most from the legacy of the World Cup. “The only green thing that got up my nose before the World Cup was the attitude of some Green Point residents. They were the people who benefited the most from the legacy of hosting the event. That’s why I’m now a little less concerned about what is planned for the area,” she said.


Zille was referring to the dismay expressed by some residents about the possible staging of a Formula One Grand Prix in their suburb.
clayton.barnes@inl.co.za

'Forget about F1 in SA'
Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:50

Forget about staging Formula One events in South Africa and concentrate on giving people houses and lights and water unless we want another "London" on our hands.

That is the hard hitting opinion expressed by marketing and media expert Stewart Ramsay Executive Director of Ramcom Publishing and Editor in Chief of the Motorsport World National motorsport newspaper.

Writing in the latest edition of Motorsport World which went on sale this week Ramsay states:

"Recently it was announced that there are plans in place and reasonably well advanced to stage a Formula One event in Cape Town. It was stated that F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone was close to signing the agreement with the Cape Town organisers. It was further reported that there were in fact three differing bids to be made to stage a Formula One event in South Africa with bids also being lodged by Durban and Johannesburg.

"Those that are passionate about Motorsport welcomed the news and were quick to start explaining how "wonderful" it would be for motorsport and for South Africa and already figures are being bandied about relating to how many foreign tourists it would bring to the country and by how much it would boost the country's economy.

"Unfortunately sometimes passion causes one to lose sight of reality and it is often the emotion that clouds the facts.

"To stage a Formula One event will require huge money. The volume of money that only the government can provide. In fact the Minister of Sport has already appeared on TV stating that a "feasibility" study is being undertaken to gather all the facts for assessment pertaining to staging a Formula One event in South Africa.

"What that feasibility study will show is that if the government is going to provide financial backing for the staging of an F1 event they are going to have to put up a considerable amount of money - tax payers money.

"It will see the same debate develop as happened over the recent suggestion that South Africa should bid for the Olympics. The government made the decision that we would not bid for the Olympics because there were more 'much more' important issues on which tax payers money should be spent.

"That situation has not changed and will equally apply to the staging of a Formula One event. There are hundreds and thousands of people in South Africa without formal housing - without lights and water - without jobs and without the facility to receive proper education.

"What is more important? To stage a Formula One event or provide houses for the homeless and water for the nation. The answer to that question is simple and Formula One runs a bad second.

"South Africa is already sitting with the problem of having built a string of highly expensive stadiums to host the World Cup soccer and is now sitting with a herd of white elephants.

"Added to that, the situation regarding the provision of housing and essential services is highly volatile at present. Where money is to be utilised to stage a motorcar race instead of building houses and supplying essential services there would be a major backlash for motorsport and instead of an F1 event boosting motorsport in this country it could make motorsport the target for all those structures that are campaigning for the right to live normally.

"Governments around the world are coming to the same conclusion. The recent F1 event staged in Germany ran at a loss of R110-million. It led to an immediate announcement by the new politically-sensitive coalition government that it no longer intends to offer funding for the Nurburgring's Grand Prix, which alternates annually on the F1 schedule with the other German venue Hockenheim."

Interviewed yesterday, Ramsay elaborated on the issue:

"The key is to ask the question what the priorities are and should be in South Africa at present. The answer is simple - job creation and provision of essential services.

"That the staging of events like the World Cup soccer and Formula One racing have benefits for the country is not the debate. The debate is simply that if the government has finance available should they stage sporting events or should they build houses - create jobs and raise the standard of service delivery.

"You only have to see what happened in London to understand what happens when those in governance do not take cognisance of a situation or do not analyse a situation correctly. Everything that is transpiring in the country at present on the political and financial fronts points to what the priorities should be at present."

Ramsay added: South Africa staged an excellent World Cup soccer tournament. But ask anyone now would they rather have R3-billion worth of houses or an empty R3-billion stadium and the answer will be simple. Let's have the houses.

Anyone and everyone that is passionate about motorsport would love to see a Formula One race in South Africa except of course those that are living in tin shacks and reading by candle light. The crux of the problem is that the Cape Town etc Formula One bid and plans have come at the wrong time. They have come at a time when government spending has never been more under the spotlight

"It is a case of timing and right now is not the time to be talking about spending huge sums of money on staging sports events. Anyone doubting that should ask the British Government."


http://business.iafrica.com/news/746423.html

Look who has arrived.

Meeting with bid CEO soon. Will report back.

As much as I hate to admit it, since I would love to have an F1 GP in this country.

I do tend to agree with Stewart Ramsay. The volume of money required for an F1 is currently unfeasible for SA. We'll battle enough with an Olympics, and thats prob more than 10 years away.

Agreed that it is a major task and tons of things to consider, but would love if debate was continuous e.g. CT tourism issues, rather than a convenient appearance in threads. Some consistency in debate around it means the agenda in various threads seem less transparent.

I've been invited to a meeting re:F1 because apparently there are new developments, so let's see what the Bid CEO says. Remember that this is a private bid, and City should and would limit its exposure as far as it sees fit.

Deputy Mayor mentioned to me that no formal presentation has yet been made although there have been informal talks, so on this front we should wait and see.

That said, F1 and the Olympic Games are not anywhere near comparable. If the argument is that F1 is unfeasible then an Olympic bid should simply not be on the radar for any city....

oh please, this is just like the Durban and Joburg bids, pie in the sky. Looking at the losses made elsewhere F1 is not a viable route for any of our cities. It needs government support like it gets everywhere else in the world. Look at the shows on the pitfalls and costs of F1 on Discovery.

and its great to see how much you love alternate views still

Forget about staging Formula One events in South Africa and concentrate on giving people houses and lights and water unless we want another "London" on our hands.

If we're going to be using that logic, then Durban should forget hosting the Olympics ANY time soon.

Look who has arrived.

Your sarcasm is pathetic. If we didn't know better, from reading your posts, one could easily think you're a child. And you wonder why some people stay away from the CT threads. :ohno:


Agreed that it is a major task and tons of things to consider, but would love if debate was continuous e.g. CT tourism issues, rather than a convenient appearance in threads. Some consistency in debate around it means the agenda in various threads seem less transparent.

What are you smoking? Is there a rule on this board that you can only post something if you are going to engage in a "continuous" debate? If not, then according to your logic, the person's "agenda" is "less transparent" if they make a posting? Are you for real? Besides, with comments like these, and the one above, you think that's going to encourage people (esp non-CT posters) to come to CT threads and engage in "continuous" debate? It's lost on no one here that you hate debates on CT, especially any that challenge your utopian portrayal of the city (you should review Durban threads. Positive and negative reports are posted [the negative ones spark even more reactions]. I wonder what the "agenda" there must be with that type of posting practice?). Ironically, while you don't like my appearance on this thread, my posting of the report on Stewart Ramsay's views has simultated comments / debate. If it was left up to you, you would never have posted it and most people who read it here would not even know it existed.

And it's funny and ironic that you mention the CT tourism thread when that particular thread best illustrates your selective posting pattern. You're, by far, the main poster on that thread (and all CT related threads), but "conveniently" omitted to post any of the widespread reports that have been (for months) highlighting the serious problem plaguing CT currently (low occupancies and hotel closures, non-synergy between tourism bodies, etc). It took other parties to raise the matter. It's the same re: CT's housing market. The occassional expensive sales gets highlighted, but not the far more common and widespread other reports (poor residential sales, inflated prices, etc).

*Your* 'agenda' is transparently obvious: don't post / avoid posting anything portraying CT in a negative light. In fact, if it were up to you, you'd have people (who know no better) believe nothing was wrong in CT. You're a censor's dream. Thankfully, you're not in charge of the media.

If we're going to be using that logic, then Durban should forget hosting the Olympics ANY time soon.

Isn't that exactly what Ramsay argued in that report? He's against SA hosting F1 and the Olympics.

Isn't that exactly what Ramsay argued in that report? He's against SA hosting F1 and the Olympics.

I wasn't talking to Ramsay.

romanSA, dude, you probably need to chill a bit. I know you and Mo have an ongoing biff, but really, there is no need to hate everything to do with Cape Town.
Some of us are really nice!

Fact remains. Many people are proud of their cities and yes, people do "suddenly appear" in threads when there's negative news afoot; that goes all ways, Durban, Jo'burg, Cape Town. I think the point was, if there was a constant presence in the forums, for good and bad, then no red flags would be raised and nobody would get upset. When presence is made felt only when some article or view point raises doubt or negativity, then obviously, the local forumers feel there's a negative agenda.

This goes in ALL directions. Just be sensitive to that!

Remember, in the late 90's, an idea of the FIFA World Cup would have been pie-in-the-sky.

I'm confused. First, I didn't write the article. I didn't even post any accompanying commentary. I merely posted it. It wasn't dug up from months or weeks ago, it was hot off the press. Should it be / have been ignored? Or is only a Capetonian allowed to post anything related to CT, unless it's positive? Some of you are seemingly dissuading non-Capetonians from posting anything negative related to CT. If you read the article, it has nothing to do with CT per se, but is about the event itself. Jhb and Durban have openly discussed / proposed hosting F1. Ramsay's comments apply equally to them too. If either city had dedicated threads for hosting F1, I would have posted it there too. Also, if you visit the Durban threads, you'll see I post positive and negative reports about the city.

Fact remains. Many people are proud of their cities and yes, people do "suddenly appear" in threads when there's negative news afoot; that goes all ways, Durban, Jo'burg, Cape Town. I think the point was, if there was a constant presence in the forums, for good and bad, then no red flags would be raised and nobody would get upset. When presence is made felt only when some article or view point raises doubt or negativity, then obviously, the local forumers feel there's a negative agenda.

This goes in ALL directions. Just be sensitive to that!

Remember, in the late 90's, an idea of the FIFA World Cup would have been pie-in-the-sky.

Yip. I don't think anybody denies that F1 is a major risk,and Bernie might run away with all the profit anyway.

It's the sudden appearance which is so transparent & then of course ludicrous suggestions that the Olympic Games are comparable to F1.

We shouldn't be against Durban hosting the Olympic Games or Cape Town hosting F1, as different as they are, but we should be aware of the planning and financial realities.

I'm confused. First, I didn't write the article. I didn't even post any accompanying commentary. I merely posted it. It wasn't dug up from months or weeks ago, it was hot off the press. Should it be / have been ignored? Or is only a Capetonian allowed to post anything related to CT, unless it's positive? Some of you are seemingly dissuading non-Capetonians from posting anything negative related to CT. If you read the article, it has nothing to do with CT per se, but is about the event itself. Jhb and Durban have openly discussed / proposed hosting F1. Ramsay's comments apply equally to them too. If either city had dedicated threads for hosting F1, I would have posted it there too. Also, if you visit the Durban threads, you'll see I post positive and negative reports about the city.

Missing the point... just join in the conversations in the CT threads at times when things look rosy too. :)

I'm confused. First, I didn't write the article. I didn't even post any accompanying commentary. I merely posted it. It wasn't dug up from months or weeks ago, it was hot off the press. Should it be / have been ignored? Or is only a Capetonian allowed to post anything related to CT, unless it's positive? Some of you are seemingly dissuading non-Capetonians from posting anything negative related to CT. If you read the article, it has nothing to do with CT per se, but is about the event itself. Jhb and Durban have openly discussed / proposed hosting F1. Ramsay's comments apply equally to them too. If either city had dedicated threads for hosting F1, I would have posted it there too. Also, if you visit the Durban threads, you'll see I post positive and negative reports about the city.

As Annman said, you're missing the point. You only tend to show up in Cape Town threads to post negative news - hot off the press or not - but rarely, if ever, partake in normal discussion.

I certainly didn't miss the point, thanks.

Not that I need to explain my postings to anyone, but I barely have time to visit Durban / KZN threads and post updates there (I prioritise those threads). I hardly visit CT or Jhb threads, and usually only do so if I come across a news report that is relevant to either city. If it's been posted already, I don't re-post it, or take part in the resulting discussion, if any. If it hasn't been posted, I sometimes post the report, time-dependant. In recent weeks, the only CT threads that I posted reports on, were related to CT tourism (in the CT discussion thread and CT tourism thread), and the GP thread (I think?) because it was bizarre that the subject of those reports was well-known, and were *deliberately* not being posted there. In any event, as this thread is dedicated to F1 CT news, let's get back to discussing that...

Big boost for Cape Town Grand Prix

September 13 2011 at 12:49pm
By Motoring Staff
Comment on this story (http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/f1-grand-prix/big-boost-for-cape-town-grand-prix-1.1136570#comments_start)
http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/iol-mot-pic-sep13-cape-town-gp-circuit-1.1136566%21/image/3972153606.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/3972153606.jpg .
The proposed Cape Town Grand Prix street circuit.

Cape Town Grand Prix SA has joined forces with a consortium of business and motorsport professionals headed by Dave McGregor, who organised the 1992 and 1993 Formula One Grands Prix at Kyalami.
Founder and CEO Igshaan Amlay said: "This is a milestone in the bidding process; Dave and his team bring a wealth of motorsport experience to the table."
"The consortium are leaders in motorsport management, event promotion, sponsorship and investment procurement, and government liaison at a national and international level.
"After two successful Grands Prix, Dave has a proven track record and strong working relationship with Formula One Management boss Bernie Ecclestone.”
McGregor commented: "The Cape Town Grand Prix concept not only makes economic sense in a South African context, but it does complete justice to the world-wide Formula One spectacle.
"We pulled off what nobody thought we could in 1992 so we can relate to Igshaan's passion and enthusiasm."
http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/iol-mot-pic-sep13-cape-town-gp-circuit-2-1.1136568%21/image/4224887560.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/4224887560.jpg A computer graphic shows the start on Beach Road, Mouille Point.
.

Cape Town Grand Prix was established in 2007, after eight years of research, by former political prisoner Igshaan Amlay, to bring Formula 1 back to South Africa, using a street circuit laid out around the Cape Town Stadium.
Amlay said: Our vision is to develop the motorsport business sector, to benefit local business and generate media impact and growth in tourism, business and employment.
"Yes, it's ambitious but, as Nelson Mandela once said. 'It's only impossible until it happens'."

Cape Town Grand Prix 'will open doors for business'
THURSDAY SEP 15, 2011

The proposed Cape Town Grand Prix should be seen as a 10-day business opportunity and not as a three-day sports event, says veteran motorsport organiser Dave McGregor.

He and an as yet unnamed consortium of business and motorsport professionals have announced that they have joined Cape Town Grand Prix South Africa to take the proposed street circuit proposal forward.

An agreement between the two parties was signed in Cape Town last Monday, Cape Town Grand Prix's founder and chief executive, Igshaan Amlay, said in a statement.

The association was established in 2007 on the back of a rigorous research and conceptual development process initiated in 1999 by Amlay.

McGregor was the organiser of the 1992 and 1993 Formula 1 grand prix at Kyalami in Joburg.

In an interview with the Cape Argus today, McGregor admitted that there was "a mountain to climb" to get this event to happen, but said he believed he had the team to "get to the top".

"It is very important to see this as a 10-day business opportunity, not a three-day sports event, because it is the business opportunity that is going to pay for it all," he said.

While the racing happens over three days - free practice sessions, qualifying and the race itself - it takes at least seven days to prepare the track and facilities for the event.

"I know that Cape Town ratepayers, and South African taxpayers in general, are punch drunk and would not want to have to pay for such an event, but we believe by making it a 10-day business opportunity, we can get large corporates to pay for everything," said McGregor. "We would need the government's co-operation, but not its financial support."

"We all know that (Formula 1 owner) Bernie Ecclestone... makes his price for bringing the event to your country. We also know that he has television rights and even trackside advertising sewn up.

"But he also comes to you with a huge television audience and an event of huge international importance, with lots of business opportunities through his international corporate sponsors. And you get the naming rights to the grand prix, with the start-line and rostrum available for naming by the corporate or corporates who support your race."

Amlay said he was satisfied with the new partnership.

"We see this partnership as a major milestone in our bidding process. Dave and his team bring a wealth of business and motorsport expertise and experience to the table.

"Our vision is to develop the motorsport business sector to strategically benefit the government, local business and the local community, while generating significant media impact and growth in tourism, business and employment for South Africa," Amlay said.

Cape Argus

Source: IOL Property (http://www.iolproperty.co.za/roller/news/entry/cape_town_grand_prix_will#.TnGnPVYDLSU.twitter)

Ecclestone targets returns to South Africa and Mexico

Bernie Ecclestone has revealed that South Africa and Mexico are next on his wish list of future Formula One destinations.

This year will see the inaugural Indian Grand Prix at the end of October, before the sport returns to the USA in 2012 and expands into Russia in 2014. South Africa and Mexico both held races until the early 1990s and Ecclestone is keen to work with projects in those countries to see F1 return.

"After Russia I would like to go to South Africa and Mexico," he told the Independent newspaper. "Both countries are trying to do something." And despite its economic problems, Ecclestone was quoted as saying: "Greece are also trying to do a Formula One race. The Germans will lend them some money".

The F1 supremo is also confident there will be a full-calendar of 20 races in 2012 after getting assurances that next year's Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead on April 22.

"I spoke to the Bahrainis yesterday and they said everything is going to be fine," he said. "I hope they are right for their sake, not ours."

The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally postponed this year after martial law was declared in the island kingdom and then cancelled altogether when a date could not be agreed upon to reschedule the race. However, Ecclestone revealed that the cancellation did not cost the Formula One Group any money as the Bahrian government still paid the hosting fee, estimated to be worth £25 million by the Independent.

"I don't think turnover will be down this year. I think it will be flat because we were paid for Bahrain. I said we will give them the money back and they said don't bother." He added: "I think the turnover and profit will be more or less the same as 2010."

ESPNF1 (http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/59218.html?CMP=chrome)

Ecclestone: F1 in SA by 2013

Cape Town - Formula One will return to South Africa by 2013, according to Bernie Ecclestone, the president and CEO of Formula One Management.

According to the Sport Industry website, a South African Grand Prix would be the first since 1993, when Alain Prost secured victory at Kyalami. It would mark another step in the sport's global expansion, with venues such as China, Abu Dhabi, India and Singapore either returning to the calendar or appearing for the first time in recent years.

A Grand Prix in Sochi is also expected from 2014, the year that the Russian city hosts the Olympic Winter Games, while Bahrain is also expected to return to the schedule following the cancellation of the race this year.

The USA, though, is proving slightly more challenging for Ecclestone and his team, despite races planned for both Texas and New Jersey.

"Formula One will not be big in America. But Formula One will be in Russia for 2014, and in South Africa by 2013 even," Ecclestone told Al Jazeera English.

He added: "The USA has been slow to get F1 because they want to see a profit before they start."

http://www.sport24.co.za/

I personally think it should return to Kyalami, it exists, it has a history and there is a need to spread global events around SA

I vote for CT...

I personally think it should return to Kyalami, it exists, it has a history and there is a need to spread global events around SA
Thing is, Kyalami does offer the history, but the history is short and thus the argument for that, not very strong. F1 has tons of track races in nondescript locations; I think they are in fact looking for something unique, like the Singapore Night Race, Monaco Street Race etc. to build the sport's image and marketability. Kyalami is located in suburban Midrand which could be anywhere in the world...

We have to remember, that Grand Prix is the leisure pursuit of the rich-and-famous and thus why Monaco F1 fits into the annual schedule like a glove and is still, the premier race. The glamour-and-engines that typifies the sport is better suited to a seaside location where the international jet-set already come to. Cape Town will attract more international attention and travel from the global wealthy. Even the rich businessmen from Jo'burg would love to have a reason like this to fly down for a weekend to Cape Town in summer.

Nothing against Jo'burg, but it is a financial and business destination, not a leisure one, unless you're a wealthy cross-border shopper from Africa. In any case, CT has been much more proactive over the years in trying to get F1 back to Africa and Ecclestone supports it.

I've always said, each city needs to market its uniqueness, and this CT is starting to do very well, with World Design Capital 2014, F1 2013 (hopefully) etc. Johannesburg has its large urban niche, but it is NOT a leisure destination, just as CT is NOT a financial capital. Perhaps Jo'burg should try to bid for the World's Fair? Perhaps use a large "urban" event like that to catalyse the revitalisation of the CBD?

1. Bernie doesn't want Kyalami.
2. The Kyalami organizing team are now part of the Cape Town bid.
3. The bid does not yet have City of Cape Town support

When will the City of Cape Town support the bid? Frustrating!

I'd love Cape Town - the type of cities that make up the city based circuits ( rather than "national" ones in the middle of nowhere - German, Eurpoean,
UK and Belgian ) are destination cities - Istanbul, Singapore, Monaco
-We should try to emulate their tourism exposure. High-end marketability is the phrase in looking for, and Cape Town is the city for this. Also, as a city angling to high end tourism, aspirational destination status, and increasingly aiming for Business friendly european style haven-in-Africa formula, the business VIP's , entrereneurs, and corporate sponsors will be exposed on the ground to something special, much the way a major conference does.
-Street Circuits like Melbourne's around a parkland are special, and ones by the sea are amazing from Heli-shots etc - this will go down with the TV veiwing masses as very very special indeed!

PS - if its about the arguement of Track v houses, then I wonder how Brazil and Mexico won over their nay-sayers?
PPS - did KAyalami also have overheating/ altitude related issues, or am I dreaming that ?

not sure there is as much appetite for this from the man on the street in cpt. cost to rate payers needs to be considered and with stadium costing money simply for the fact it was forced on the city and her rate payers, i think this will get a lot of nimbys out of there bed and into action.

on the stadium a birdy told me a very interesting fact and something massive is about to happen, highly top secret but very positive for the city

Nice! Will be interesting to see what it is...

on the stadium a birdy told me a very interesting fact and something massive is about to happen, highly top secret but very positive for the city

That and some Wembley Stadium involvement...

NFL visiting Cape Town is it ? - just a wild guess! Seems to work in Wembley!

NFL visiting Cape Town is it ? - just a wild guess! Seems to work in Wembley!

if that was to happen i'd be on the first flight home!:nuts:

Fikile Mbalula set to throw his weight behind the bid. Currently being tabled in Parliament.

watching the set up from my desk here in Melbourne overlooking Albert Park. - was fascinating! increadble amount of layout work and temp stands popping up super-quick! All ready for the big weekend as of today they were taking a few of the safety cars - merc CLS coupe's with tuned V8 engines - through their paces and wow - the sound was brilliant, and thats not even a GP car lol.
I'd love a Cape Town GP. we are a nation of petrol heads - sufficient to have Top Gear doing their thing on our shores, and a very long reaching competitive racing history, and many drivers from times gone bye. The only thing is sponsorship. Who will step up to sponson our GP? - without tobacco and liquor, will it be banks?Mining companies? - without it, the city will have to fork out more than just set-up and take down costs, and the Aus GP is even under threat from lack of sponsorship, and the city is being grilled by the well advised public (who love the GP on Melbourne's calender ) about how much its costing this year.

Government ‘stalling’ Cape’s Grand Prix bid
BEKEZELA PHAKATHI
Published: 2012/03/27 07:23:35 AM

CAPE TOWN — The government’s continued failure to meet Cape Town Grand Prix SA could further delay the city’s bid to host a Grand Prix, according to the local organising committee.

Any successful bid to host a Formula One race would require government backing. In recent years, some of SA’s major cities have been working to attract international events in a bid to encourage economic growth.

Cape Town Grand Prix SA spokeswoman Esther Henderson said that they had yet to meet Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula, despite repeated efforts to get to see him.

"We still have not had a meeting with government … we need them to have a say in the matter," she said.

The delay meant the organising committee had to "relook at the dates to host the race", Ms Henderson said.

Department of Sport and Recreation spokesman Paena Galane said yesterday the department would not make any "public pronouncements" on the matter until after it had met the local organising committee.

"They (Cape Town Grand Prix SA) have to come and make a presentation to us. The minister has said we cannot put the cart before the horse when it comes to bidding to host such events," Mr Galane said.

"Each federation that bids to host an event has to follow the hosting guidelines."

Earlier this year, organisers of the international motoring show Top Gear Festival, due to be held in KwaZulu-Natal in June, promised at least R26m in procurement revenue for suppliers in the province. The eThekwini Municipality and the provincial government have come under criticism for committing R31m to host the festival in Durban, which the municipality argues will stimulate growth.

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone said last year Cape Town could host a Grand Prix "within two years".

However, Ms Henderson said it would not be realistic for the city to bid to host a race next year. She said 2014 would be a more realistic option.


- Business Day (http://www.businessday.co.za/articles/Content.aspx?id=168276)

any news?