SA's James Barclay praises Saffers working in Formula E: We have an incredible skillset

James Barclay has made quite an impact in the world of motorsport since he left South Africa in 1995. Now, almost three decades later, he heads to Cape Town as the team boss for the Jaguar TCS Racing team.

"It's a really nice experience to race at home, you know," Barclay said of competing in SA.

"And to be here in Cape Town for the first World Championship since the 1993 Formula 1 race in Kyalami... It's a real honour to race at home with friends and family in attendance."

READ: SA's James Barclay revisits the choices that led him to becoming Jaguar's Formula E boss

Barclay is quite excited to have his family and friends see him and his team in action, and notes that it is a surreal experience having his parents attend the Cape Town e-Prix with him.

"My parents live in Cape Town, so you don't associate coming here with work," Barclay says. "But they are quite proud of the work myself and the team do. And for everyone in the team, it's great to know that our families celebrate any kind of victory and achievement with us."

A proud moment

Barclay confirmed to News24 Sport that it is a big feeling to know that the sport has finally made its way to South Africa. With the race having been a discussion since before Covid-19, it is finally happening, and the City of Cape Town is ready to host the world.

"I know motorsport has a huge following here; it's part of the fabric of what people love in this country," the Jaguar TCS Racing team boss explains.

"Not just in our team but in other teams across the grid, there are a number of South Africans, so this is a home race for quite a few of us. And what I would say is that I'm really proud that we have an incredible skillset within South Africa, which is really applicable to motorsport.