Guyana’s growing investment in sports infrastructure and tourism will be on full display this weekend when the country hosts the inaugural GT Challenge de las Américas at the South Dakota Circuit.
During a media conference held at the South Dakota Circuit on Wednesday, government officials outlined the transformative impact of the international motorsport event, which forms part of a wider strategy to position Guyana as a premier destination for sports tourism while stimulating economic growth.
Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs said the GT Challenge de las Américas marks a historic achievement for Guyana and reflects the government’s commitment to expanding the country’s sports tourism product.
“We are creating history as a nation. We will be hosting for the first time the GT Challenge. We are expecting at least 20,000 persons here on Sunday. That is something that should blow everyone’s mind. It goes back to the vision of His Excellency and the commitment to making Guyana a premier sporting destination through sports tourism,” Minister Jacobs said.
He noted that the government’s investment has transformed the South Dakota Circuit into a modern facility capable of hosting international events, demonstrating Guyana’s readiness to stage competitions of the highest standard.
“Our government has invested significantly in what you are seeing here. Six months ago, nothing like this existed. Today we have an exceptional pit facility, an exceptional track and supporting infrastructure completed in record time. This is showing the world what Guyana can accomplish,” the minister stated.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. said the event is part of the government’s broader vision to diversify Guyana’s economy by investing in sectors that generate sustainable growth and create opportunities for businesses.
“This is a bigger vision. It is not just a motor racing event. This is the development of Guyana for all Guyanese and the creation of sustainable opportunities so that everybody gets an opportunity to achieve prosperity,” Minister Ramson said.
He explained that sports tourism complements Guyana’s broader development agenda by attracting international visitors whose spending benefits businesses across the economy.
The GT Challenge de las Américas will be held on July 11 and 12 at the South Dakota Circuit and will feature internationally recognised drivers competing in world-class racing machines, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren and Mercedes.
The event is expected to be the largest motorsport competition ever staged in the English-speaking Caribbean.
