Morocco pays great attention to information related to the return of Formula 1 to the African continent. According to Barlamane.com's sources, the Cherifian kingdom is building a file around a major project around Tangier in order to position itself as a serious contender for this historic meeting.
Tangier, Africa's gateway to the Mediterranean, is at the heart of a major sporting proposition. The city, known for its strategic position at the crossroads of continents, could, according to our information, offer an exceptional setting for a Formula 1 Grand Prix. This vision, supported by massive investments, reflects Morocco's aspirations to become a major platform for motorsport in Africa and around the world.
According to our information, Morocco is studying the construction of a modern urban circuit around Tangier, combining technological innovation and compliance with strict FIA standards. The total cost of the project is estimated at 260 million dollars, of which 200 million would be dedicated to circuit infrastructure and 60 million to ancillary facilities, including spaces for the public and media facilities. Mixed financing would be under study, combining public funds and private partnerships with a substantial contribution from local companies and foreign investors. The design work could be entrusted to German architect Hermann Tilke, owner of Tilke Engineering, renowned for having designed several iconic circuits on the Formula 1 calendar.
Tangier is also in the negotiation phase with several strategic players, including international sponsors like Aramco and Pirelli, who could play a key role in the realization and promotion of the event, according to what Barlamane.com was able to learn.
Experience and strategic positioning
Moroccan expertise in organizing automobile competitions constitutes a great asset. The Moulay El Hassan circuit in Marrakech has already hosted prestigious events such as Formula E and the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC), offering the kingdom a solid argument in terms of logistics and hospitality. In addition, the location of Tangier reinforces its attractiveness. The immediate proximity to Europe facilitates access for teams, equipment and spectators, and control of logistical costs for organizers. This unique geographical position gives the project an international dimension likely to appeal to the FIA and Formula 1 leaders.
Other African heavyweights
Morocco will, however, face stiff competition from Rwanda and South Africa. While Kigali is banking on the construction of a brand new circuit near Bugesera international airport, a project which integrates ultra-modern infrastructure and funds of around $270 million. South Africa, for its part, is proposing to rehabilitate the historic Kyalami circuit, near Johannesburg, which hosted the last African Grand Prix in 1993. The necessary renovations, estimated at around ten million dollars. of the South draws on its rich history in motorsport and the support of influential drivers like Lewis Hamilton, a fervent defender of the return of F1 to Africa.
A major financial and diplomatic issue
Organizing a Formula 1 Grand Prix represents a colossal challenge on a financial, logistical and diplomatic level. In addition to the initial investments, the annual licensing fees, imposed by FOM (Formula One Management), range between $60 and $100 million, depending on the nature of the agreement.
For Morocco, however, the expected benefits go well beyond the economic aspect. A Grand Prix in Tangier would reflect on the international image of the kingdom and attract thousands of tourists and anchor its place as a destination of choice for major world events. Furthermore, this event would be part of a broader strategy intended to establish the Moroccan economy in the movement of global contingencies.
