SOUTH AFRICAN GRAND PRIX

Introduction: Located in the remote Goldfields area of the Free State province in South Africa, The Phakisa Freeway in Welkom is one of the newest race circuits on the MotoGP itinerary. Brought about through a government initiative in 1999 to bring fresh employment and economic benefit to the local area, the D-shaped speedway and 4.24km road track cost in excess of $15m to construct, whilst the complex also includes a football stadium which is home to the Qwa.Qwa stars. Engines lose around 20 per cent of their power at the twisty circuit because of the extremely high altitude (Welkom is located at 1350m above sea level), so plenty of open throttle action and some of the most challenging corners in Grand Prix racing combine to make for one of the most exciting events of the year.