Motorsport South Africa (MSA), with support from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) Motorsport Funding Programme, is proud to announce the launch of the MSA National Motorsport Marshal Safety Training and Competency Development Programme. The first of this nationwide series of training initiatives will take place at the historic East London Grand Prix Circuit on Saturday, 14 March 2026, in partnership with the Border Motor Sport Club.
This landmark programme represents a significant investment in the foundation of South African motorsport: its volunteer officials. The initiative aims to train and certify over 200 marshals across the country over the next 12 months. The curriculum is designed to standardise and elevate safety competencies, incident response, and race management skills across all motorsport disciplines, ensuring that South Africa’s officials operate at a world-class, FIA-aligned standard.
The comprehensive one-day course combines intensive classroom theory with hands-on practical application on the racetrack. Key modules include:
- Advanced Flag, Incident, and Fire Response Protocols
- Radio Communication and Race Control Operations
- Safety Car Procedures
- On-Track Simulated Incident Drills
“Our officials and marshals are the lifeblood of motorsport; without their passion and dedication, we simply could not go racing,” said Vic Maharaj, CEO of Motorsport South Africa. “This programme, made possible by the FIA’s Motorsport Funding Programme, is a critical step in our mission to enhance safety standards and create a structured, sustainable pathway for volunteers to develop into senior official roles. We are thrilled to kick off this national initiative in East London, a venue steeped in motorsport history, and look forward to empowering MSA officials.”
The initiative will establish a national database of certified marshals and implement a ‘Train the Trainer’ model to ensure long-term sustainability and consistent quality across all regions. This forms a core part of MSA’s strategy to strengthen the entire ecosystem of South African motorsport, from grassroots to national and international events.
The training is open to both aspiring new marshals and experienced officials wishing to formalise their skills. For booking information for the East London training session, please contact Celeste van Jaarsveld at office@bmsc.co.za.
ABOUT MOTORSPORT SOUTH AFRICA (MSA)
Motorsport South Africa is the sole recognised governing body for two-wheel and four-wheeled motorsport in South Africa, as recognised by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, SASCOC, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). MSA is responsible for the governance and administration of motorsport, developing safety standards, and promoting the growth of the sport nationwide.
ABOUT THE FIA MOTORSPORT FUNDING PROGRAMME
The FIA Motorsport Funding Programme provides essential financial support to FIA Clubs worldwide to advance motorsport through training, safety, and development initiatives. The programme empowers ASNs to implement projects that create a lasting impact on their motorsport communities and align with the FIA’s global safety and sustainability priorities.