Rabat – The city of Tangier is making a strong bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, marking a potential revival of motorsport in Morocco. If approved, it would be the first time the country has hosted a Formula 1 race since 1958.
A report by Atalayar outlet highlights the economic benefits of hosting a Formula 1 event. With an estimated 1.2 billion viewers and over a quarter of a million attendees per race, Formula 1 is a global sporting powerhouse. A Grand Prix in Morocco would attract significant tourism investment and enhance the country’s reputation as a major event host.
“While it is true that Morocco has already hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix, it dates back to 1958. The inclusion of Africa in sports worldwide may be one of the keys that leads this North African country to be able to host races in the coming years,” stated the report.
The growing popularity of Middle Eastern circuits in Formula 1 has created a favorable climate for Morocco’s bid. Countries like Saudi Arabia have successfully integrated into the sport, demonstrating the potential for North African nations to do the same.
As the calendar becomes increasingly packed, distributing the circuits has become more challenging. Additionally, with recent investments and the focus on Middle Eastern circuits—likely influenced by major sponsor Saudi Aramco—the inclusion of Morocco as a representative of Africa is becoming a more viable prospect.
On multiple occasions, Formula 1 CEO Ben Sulayem has expressed his interest in increasing Africa’s representation in the sport.
However, strict safety regulations and a packed race calendar pose challenges to Morocco’s aspirations. Safety concerns have previously prevented other African locations, such as Kyalami in South Africa, from hosting Formula 1 events.
