McKenzie Outlines Ambitious Plan to Bring F1, UFC and LIV Golf to South Africa
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has set out an ambitious vision to position the country as a leading global destination for major international sporting events, including Formula 1, UFC and LIV Golf.
Delivering his departmental budget speech before Parliament, McKenzie said government is intensifying efforts to attract world-class sporting competitions while also addressing long-standing funding challenges affecting local athletes and smaller sporting federations.
He expressed concern over the financial struggles faced by lesser-funded sports codes, noting that some athletes have historically had to rely on community fundraising initiatives to compete internationally.
He pledged to improve state support for sports development, saying no South African athlete representing the country should be left without funding.
McKenzie said the government is engaging with international stakeholders to secure the future of LIV Golf in South Africa, following global uncertainty around investment backing for the tournament.
He added that discussions with LIV Golf leadership have been ongoing and that preparations are continuing despite external speculation.
On Formula 1, the Minister confirmed renewed momentum towards bringing the sport back to South Africa for the first time since 1993. He said discussions have reached advanced stages, with government now actively involved at the highest level, including the Presidency.
He noted that infrastructure and financial requirements remain significant, with a potential return now more likely in 2028 rather than earlier projections, but insisted that negotiations are progressing positively.
McKenzie also revealed renewed interest in hosting UFC events in South Africa, following earlier discussions that stalled due to high costs.
He suggested that changes in broadcasting and licensing structures could make future events more financially viable, opening the door for renewed negotiations with the organisation.
Despite the bold ambitions, the Minister acknowledged that delivering such large-scale international events will require time, investment and collaboration with private sector partners and global sporting bodies.
He said the broader goal is to grow South Africa’s sports economy, boost tourism and create opportunities for local athletes to compete on the world stage, while ensuring stronger financial support for grassroots and smaller sporting disciplines.
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