Durban is to host the South African round of the A1 Grand Prix World Cup of Motorsport, which will take place on January 29, 2006 in the streets of the coastal city.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sibusiso Ndebele confirmed this at a joint press conference held today with eThekwini Mayor Obed Mlaba and Tokyo Sexwale -- chairman of A1 Team South Africa.

There have been constant deliberations between all stakeholders including the Premier the Mayor and the A1 team, which subsequently led to the Premier attending the Grand Prix in London this year.

It was here where the deal was clinched with the A1 Grand Prix organisation to make the Durban the host city in January next year.

Premier Ndebele said: "Durban is South Africa's own Monaco, and it is appropriate that the event should take the form of a Monaco-style street race along one of the most beautiful beachfronts in the world."

Although 25 countries take part in the world cup of motor sport, only 12 host a round of the series. It is of great significance that South Africa is one of them.

"It is roads that build the economy and not the economy that builds roads. This is in context of what the spin off will be with the event being held in the Province. This event will benefit both the Province and the City and moreover the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

"This will be A1 Grand Prix's only street race, and the first race of its kind to be staged in the city. Durban has shown a deep passion for sport, whether it be soccer, rugby, cricket or other sports codes.

"We are more than confident that these sports fans – as well as those who traditionally watch sport from the comfort of their armchairs -- will join us on the streets on the 29th of January as proud hosts of this exciting event."

KwaZulu-Natal, as a host province for this world cup motor sport can promise a world-class event of which all South Africans can be proud.

The cost of staging the event including broadcasting to at least 14 countries around the world, the creation of a street track in eThekweni and all other infrastructure and management coasts is R91.6 million. We are estimating at least 100 000 spectators will attend the event, with half of these being from outside the province and the country.

It is poised to attract visitors from across the county, and have no doubt that the A1 Grand Prix will assist in building the profile of the province and in reinforcing why this is a tourism destination of choice.

Mayor Mlaba added: "A1 Grand Prix is more than just a sport. It unites nations and encourages patriotism. We therefore see this as an opportunity to generate great excitement, passion and pride among South Africans.

Durban is South Africa's playground for world class sporting events. And we are even more confident that with the World Cup Soccer on our doorstep Durban will once again be showcased as a city that will attract even one of the major games to be played here.

"We see long-lasting economic benefits from this event, and appreciate the confidence in our province that has been expressed by A1 Grand Prix South Africa," the Mayor added.