Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie has passionately defended his department’s recent R5 million investment in car spinning, positioning it as an untapped sporting phenomenon with the potential to grow into a multi-billion-rand industry. The minister envisions a future where car spinning, a motorsport born on South African streets, gains recognition as a mainstream, exportable sporting event on a global scale.
“Car spinning is highly engaging and immensely popular, providing a unique and dynamic form of entertainment,” McKenzie said. “We have an opportunity to turn this sport into a global export and, with continued support, it could develop into a multi-billion-dollar [multi-billion-rand] industry, comparable to other major sports worldwide.” McKenzie’s commitment to car spinning reflects a broader ambition to innovate within South Africa’s sports sector, creating platforms for new, locally-driven sports to thrive internationally.
McKenzie’s statement came in response to a query from Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Member of Parliament Bhekiziwe Luthuli, who questioned the rationale behind investing millions in car spinning and how it fits into the department’s larger strategy for sport and social development. In his response, McKenzie argued that car spinning goes beyond simple entertainment, acting as a social tool to uplift communities.
“Car spinning offers a positive outlet for young people, especially in areas hit hard by crime and social challenges,” he explained. “It provides a constructive option and brings together people from all backgrounds, transcending race, socio-economic status, and other divides.” The minister emphasized that the government’s focus is on removing the stigma around the sport, which often involves health and safety concerns due to its street origins. McKenzie said his department is collaborating closely with Motorsport South Africa to establish professional guidelines and to ensure safety standards are met, transforming the sport into a professional and structured discipline.
Since his appointment on June 30 by President Cyril Ramaphosa, McKenzie has committed himself to legalising and creating opportunities for car spinning. During his budget speech in July, he outlined his vision for the sport, announcing his intention to formalise, professionalise, and develop car spinning with the ministry’s support. The aim, he said, is to integrate it under an official sporting body and foster a reputable environment for it to grow.
Already, the sport is gaining traction with corporate sponsors, and more companies are expressing interest in the emerging motorsport, signalling its potential for further growth. McKenzie noted that the involvement of corporate South Africa validates the investment, indicating a lucrative future for car spinning.
“We are working to develop this sport in a way that will contribute to social change, create employment opportunities, and build an inclusive platform that celebrates South African culture on an international stage,” McKenzie stated. His department’s commitment to car spinning aligns with its goals of promoting inclusivity, enhancing sports development, and addressing social challenges through structured, accessible opportunities.
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