Actor and television presenter Lawrence Maleka has weighed in on the growing debate surrounding Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie’s comments about South Africa’s Formula One ambitions, urging the politician not to overlook the country’s struggling creative industry.
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The discussion gained momentum after Gayton defended government spending on South Africa’s successful 2026 FIFA World Cup bid while warning that hosting a Formula One race would require significant financial backing and national commitment.
Lawrence Maleka calls for support for the arts
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Lawrence acknowledged Gayton’s concerns but reminded the minister that his portfolio extends beyond sport.
In his post, Lawrence wrote:
“You’re also the Minister of Arts and Culture, a sector that desperately needs intervention, ambition and protection. It also needs funding for the current everyday events that take place and are viewed in South African households every day.”
You’re also the Minister of Arts and Culture, a sector that desperately needs intervention, ambition and protection. It also needs funding for the current everyday events that take place and are viewed in South African households everyday. https://t.co/xFTs4TMMv3
— LawrenceMaleka (@Lawrence_Maleka) July 22, 2026
His comments quickly attracted attention online, with many social media users agreeing that South Africa’s arts and entertainment industry requires greater investment and protection.
Social media users come alive
Lawrence’s post sparked widespread discussion, with many users arguing that while attracting global sporting events can boost tourism and the economy, local creatives also deserve sustained government support.
Some users pointed to the financial challenges faced by artists, actors, musicians and event organisers, while others said investment in sport and the creative industries should not be viewed as competing priorities.
Others defended Gayton, arguing that hosting a Formula One Grand Prix could generate jobs, international exposure and long-term economic benefits that would also benefit other sectors.
This chap is clueless about leadership let alone his portfolio. Just an excitable character pretending to be busy chowing tax payers’ money. Being a minister really just gives him access to the front seat of prestigious events.
— Nyakkie (@Nyaxsta) July 22, 2026
Merging the two was a big mistake. Now Sports is flourishing, Arts and Culture is dead.
— b o s k i (@kabo_gavin) July 22, 2026
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Even if we disregard the fact that he cut funding for major local festivals including Cape Town Jazz Fest.
Stop conflating issues. Reverse the defunding of the arts. Do your job. Then little old me and people alike will take you serious.
F1 is an investment. World cup was fun
— Ou Tshiki maan 🇿🇦 (@_TshiamoT) July 22, 2026
Formula One debate continues
Gayton has been vocal about his ambition to bring Formula One back to South Africa but has also cautioned that hosting the global motorsport event would require billions of rand and careful financial planning.
His recent remarks came after questions were raised about government spending, including the reported R31 million allocated to South Africa’s successful FIFA World Cup bid process.
As the conversation continues, Lawrence’s intervention has shifted part of the focus to the country’s creative sector, with many calling for stronger support for the arts alongside investment in major international sporting events.
Gayton McKenzie 🗣
“If you’re angry with me about the R31 million spent on the World Cup, you’re going to kill me when you see the bill for Formula One.” pic.twitter.com/wmiIslTu4Z
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) July 22, 2026
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