Street motor racing comes to Soweto

In a statement the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality said: "Hosting the first-ever street race in a township confirms Johannesburg's status as a world-class African city, committed to the creation of new economic and social opportunities for its entire people."

The event is a partnership between WesBank, the city of Johannesburg, Motorsport South Africa and the people of Soweto. George Nyabadza, GM marketing at WesBank said that it is "all systems go" for race day and that spectators are in for a thrilling day of entertainment. "We are adding the final touches to months of preparation and can hardly wait for Sunday to arrive. The circuit, which is bigger and better than last year, is being prepared and grandstands are being built as we speak," said Nyabadza.

Free of charge

The event is free of charge and racing on the "L-shaped" circuit along Chris Hani Road (opposite the UJ Campus) and Nicholas Street will start at 12 noon on Sunday, continuing until 5pm. Spectator parking facilities will be clearly signposted and are located at Baragwanath Mall and the Shell Garage Mall, giving easy access to the grandstands that have been erected to bring the crowd up close and personal to the racing cars.

Safety is of extreme importance at an event of this nature and the WesBank Street Race, Soweto will be no different. It is fully sanctioned and run by Motorsport South Africa and will ensure safe, yet exciting entertainment for both the public and the racing drivers.

Meet the drivers

With the country's leading circuit-racing drivers and their teams revved up to race, spectators are invited to come to meet them in the pit area at the University of Johannesburg Soweto campus from about 11am. "We believe that motorsport, like most other sports in the world, is all about exposure. We are bringing motorsport to the people through this race and have no doubt that it will inspire young black South Africans to consider making it their career dream, be that as a driver, mechanic or team manager," continued Nyabadza.

An event of this size does not come without disruption and Sowetans need to be aware that road closures are inevitable. Chris Hani Road will be closed from 6am to 6pm on Sunday 19 July, between Immink Road and Modjadji. Nicholas Street will also be closed between the Orlando Towers and Chris Hani Road, giving only limited access to taxis and spectators wishing to make use of the public parking facilities. Alternative routes have, however, been developed to minimise traffic congestion and will be clearly signposted. A pedestrian bridge across Chris Hani Road has also been erected to accommodate the residents of Power Park.