Anele Mdoda calls for Johannesburg to host F1 after her first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix experience

“I really underestimated Abu Dhabi. I thought it was a smaller version of Dubai. Wrong!”

These are the words of South African media personality Anele Mdoda, who recently attended the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit in the United Arab Emirates.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix serves as the thrilling season finale for Formula One, providing fans with one last celebration of racing action before the winter break.

Mdoda attended this prestigious event with her husband, Bonelela 'Buza' James Mgudlwa, a respected prince and attorney from the esteemed AbaThembu royal family.

Sharing their adventure on social media, Mdoda expressed her excitement about the experience, stating, “This is my first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. I’ve always wanted to come, but then 2020 happened, and I thought I would never get to Abu Dhabi.”

There is potential for the Formula One Grand Prix to come to Africa, with cities such as Lagos in Nigeria, Kigali in Rwanda, Cape Town, and Johannesburg being considered as possible host locations.

When asked which African city she would prefer to see host the event, Mdoda chose Johannesburg, saying, “I really want Johannesburg to get it. When you look at tourism in South Africa, Cape Town already has the juice. Johannesburg really needs this race."

She says it could also motivate our municipalities in Johannesburg to recognise that they shine when they host events, and after hosting the G20 Summit, the city can definitely host the biggest sporting event in the world.

As the 2025 season concluded, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix delivered a thrilling finale, with Lando Norris being crowned the sport's 35th World Champion.

In South Africa, there is an active bid to bring Formula 1 back to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.

Cabinet approval was secured in September 2025 for a potential start in 2027, supported by private funding for necessary track upgrades to meet FIA Grade 1 standards.

This initiative is led by a government committee and entities like the South African GP (SAGP), aiming to host the first African Grand Prix in over 30 years.

The bid leverages Kyalami's challenging layout, high altitude, and strong local support, including advocacy from Lewis Hamilton for an African race.