Layout: Fictitious (designed by me) – © 2020 AllAlongTheRacetrack
When was the track built?
The current complex is not the first that existed at Welkom. In 1970 the Goldfields Raceway, whose roads are still visible around the circuit, was built on the same site, mainly used by sports cars.
In 1999, after two years of massive construction works, the current circuit and connected oval were built, replacing completely the historical track, to attract MotoGP, which came for five South African GPs, Nascar and Indy, which unfortunately never managed to bring an official event here.
After losing its International appeal and several failed attempts of re-establishing it in the motorsport world panorama, the new F1 organization re-opened the window for it thanks to better financial conditions for GP hosts and a new design, made by me, combining parts of the circuit and the oval, in addition to new stands, safety, paddock and entertainment facilities, will bring Formula One races in here from 2023.
The oval will be used only for half of its length.
When was its first Grand Prix?
No Formula 1 race has been held in this venue.
It is ready to host both Continental and World F1 events.
What’s the circuit like?
The first part up to turn 7 is a flowing section with mainly long and fast corners, kept from the MotoGP track.
The link to the oval, which is surrounded by natural stands, is made by two new hairpins that form a tight chicane.
A second narrow and challenging chicane, with a tricky braking zone, will lead cars back to the main circuit for the final three corners, also unchanged from the MotoGP layout.
It is a unique transformation that will make Phakisa Freeway one of the few circuits able to combine track and oval racing, a rare event for Formula One racing.
The tarmac has been widened a bit and the banked part will also be a great opportunity for wheel-to-wheel action and overtaking, previously challenging on the former layout.
Where is it located?
Just north of Welkom, in the centre of South Africa, well served by the local airport. (- 27°54’13”, + 26°42’47”)
All Along The Racetrack 