At a Glance
- Africa’s motorsport growth is driven by tourism, investments, and rising local fan engagement.
- Kenya, South Africa, and Morocco anchor the continent’s world-class racing calendar.
- New events boost infrastructure, youth talent, and Africa’s global motorsport relevance.
Africa’s motorsport scene is shifting into high gear, fueled by rising investments, tourism synergies, and a growing fan base of motorsport enthusiasts.
From the rugged trails of the Safari Rally Kenya to the adrenaline-pumping Knysna Simola Hillclimb in South Africa, the continent is fast becoming a vibrant destination for world-class racing.
With countries like Rwanda, Morocco, and Nigeria making bold moves to expand motorsport infrastructure and host international events, Africa is accelerating toward becoming a key player in the global racing ecosystem.
Below are the top 10 motorsport events currently gaining serious traction across the continent:
Safari Rally Kenya (WRC) – Kenya
Now a cornerstone of the FIA World Rally Championship, the Safari Rally Kenya combines the unforgiving terrain of the Great Rift Valley with global TV coverage and elite rally car teams.
The blend of gravel, mud, and unpredictable weather continues to cement Kenya’s place as a premier destination for rally racing in Africa.
Desert Challenge – Morocco
This Dakar-style endurance rally is a high-stakes, high-speed journey through Morocco’s unforgiving Sahara terrain.
Since 2008, the Morocco Desert Challenge has drawn elite off-road racers from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa—cementing the country’s position as a top destination for extreme motorsport tourism and adventure racing.
Knysna Simola Hillclimb – South Africa
South Africa’s premier time-trial hillclimb event, Simola draws vintage car collectors, supercar owners, and professional drivers alike.
The scenic course through Knysna’s mountains turns the Western Cape into a high-speed celebration of classic and modern motorsport engineering.
Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally – Rwanda
Part of the African Rally Championship (ARC), this East African event is helping Rwanda rebrand as a top destination for motorsport tourism.
With winding roads, pristine scenery, and growing local interest, it’s one of the continent’s most promising motorsport spectacles.
Toyota 1000 Desert Race – Botswana
Previously held in Botswana and now part of South Africa’s Cross Country Series (SACCS), this off-road competition remains one of the region’s largest.
Backed by Toyota and drawing hundreds of participants and thousands of fans, the race strengthens Southern Africa’s off-road racing identity.
Nigerian Motorsport Games – Nigeria
This multisport racing event blends drag racing, karting, motocross, and rally sprints to nurture homegrown talent.
Spearheaded by the Nigerian Automobile and Sports Association (NASA), it marks Nigeria’s most comprehensive push toward building a structured motorsport ecosystem.
Cape Grand Prix – South Africa
Touted as a potential future home for Formula 1 Africa, the Cape Grand Prix is generating global buzz.
Although still in development, the street circuit concept is backed by private investors and local tourism boards—reflecting South Africa’s broader ambitions to reclaim a seat on the international F1 calendar.
FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations – Zambia
This pan-African motocross championship gathers top dirt bike riders from Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia.
With growing youth participation and formal backing from FIM Africa, it serves as a vital grassroots engine for the continent’s off-road biking future.
Tunisia Desert Challenge – Tunisia
An emerging favorite among Dakar veterans and rally raid enthusiasts, this new entrant leverages Tunisia’s vast desert landscapes to offer a challenging course.
It’s also bolstering the country’s sports tourism strategy, attracting visitors and racers from across Europe and the MENA region.
East African Mini Classic Rally – Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
Paying homage to the iconic East African Safari Rally of the 1960s, this vintage rally event spans multiple countries and draws classic car enthusiasts from Europe, Asia, and the U.S. With nostalgic appeal and competitive spirit, it bridges heritage and modern motorsport.
