The South African Endurance Series (SAES) launched the Nine Hours of Kyalami at the Tempo Luxury Restaurant in Sunninghill, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable event in South Africa’s motorsport calendar. The launch was hosted by petrolhead and sports presenter Clauie-Grace Mpanza and motorsport broadcaster Prince Ndiweni. It brought together key industry stakeholders, government representatives, media, and motorsport enthusiasts to officially kick off the countdown to the main event taking place on the 29th and 30th of November 2024.
The launch event featured an introduction to the South African Endurance Series (SAES) by its CEO, Wayne Riddell, and SAES Chairman, Mr. Xolile Letlaka, who is also the founder of Into Africa Racing and a celebrated racer. Their addresses highlighted the growth of the endurance racing culture in South Africa and the significance of the Nine Hours of Kyalami in the global motorsport landscape.
Wayne Riddell expressed his excitement for the event, saying, “The Nine Hours of Kyalami is a celebration of passion, resilience, and the spirit of motorsport. This event not only showcases world-class racing talent but also strengthens South Africa’s position on the global motorsport map. We are thrilled to bring together such a diverse and talented field of racers, and we look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike.”
In her address, Honourable Peace Mabe, Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, recognising its contribution to promoting the sport, tourism, and economic development. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate South Africa’s status as a key player in the international motorsport arena. The presence of key motorsport figures such as Vic Maharaj, CEO of Motorsport SA, further underscored the event’s importance.

To further elevate the event’s stature, the artist lineup for the main event was unveiled. The lineup features top local talent, including:
- Zakes Bantwini
- Oscar Mbo
- Prime Circle
- Lee Cole
- Sun-El Musician
- Daliwonga
- Mas Musiq
- Tamara Dey Live
- Kyle Cassim
- Chrizz Beatz
- Pablo Lundell
- Weston & Engine
- DJ Buhle
- Ed-Ward
- DJ Mo
- Timo
- Shluda
Beyond the heart-pounding action on the track, the Nine Hours of Kyalami promises nonstop entertainment for the whole family. Families can look forward to a dedicated Kids Zone, complete with a marquee filled with jumping castles, face painters, and balloon animal-making clowns. Additionally, the event will offer a vibrant Flea Market experience and a go-kart rental track, where families can compete against each other on the Kyalami Dynamic Handling track.

For the younger generation of enthusiasts, SAES will, for the first time, be hosting a Virtual vs. Real competition. More than 100 SIM racer teams will take on their real racing counterparts in a simultaneous Nine Hours of virtual racing on the same track, at the same venue, and at the same time. This innovative approach aims to bridge the gap between virtual and real racing and introduce new audiences to the excitement of motorsport.
As the countdown to the main event begins, the Nine Hours of Kyalami is set to offer a multifaceted experience that transcends motorsport, appealing to racing enthusiasts and lifestyle connoisseurs alike. With the promise of speed, adrenaline, and vibrant performances, Kyalami is gearing up to be the ultimate destination for motorsport and entertainment this November.
Tickets to the public areas for the round five Friday race is R150. Tickets including the popular Fan Zone are R450 for the entire Saturday while VIP tickets are available at R1750, that includes all meals and paddock access. An exclusive Private Lounge experience is available at Tempo Restaurant for the elite package that also gets you onto the famous grid walk on top of all the other entertainment available.
Tickets are available at: here