Officials at Sepang International Circuit haven’t dismissed the chance of the Malaysian Grand Prix being reinstated on the Formula 1 schedule, in spite of the government’s choice to withhold monetary backing for the occasion.
Malaysia ceased to be part of F1’s lineup after 2017, at the same time as Liberty Media took control of the series from CVC Capital and steered it toward greater popularity.
Recently, race tracks worldwide have observed unprecedented levels of spectator attendance, thereby enhancing their economic performance, and Liberty Media has been actively engaging with event organizers to strengthen the financial sustainability of each Grand Prix.
Given the enhanced economic circumstances, Sepang’s leadership has been increasingly assertive in pursuing the reinstatement of the Malaysian GP, suggesting that discontinuing the race was a “mistake”.
However, the Malaysian government has stated definitively that it will not allocate any funds to resurrect the event, with reports indicating Liberty’s demand for a hosting fee of approximately $70 million.
Even so, the circuit is still optimistic that Malaysia could eventually return to the F1 roster, although a resurgence appears doubtful in the foreseeable future.
“I am fairly certain that Formula 1 will be back at some point, although not presently,” Sepang CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif informed Autosport. “I believe the government’s current endeavors are entirely focused on addressing the needs of the citizens rather than dedicating considerable millions of dollars and ringgit to financing Formula 1.
Sepang circuit aerial view
Photo by: Sutton Images
But I am inclined to think that with adequate backing from enterprises going forward, we might be able to facilitate its return. However, it is not feasible for us currently. Nevertheless, I do wish for Formula 1 to return at some juncture.”
When queried about the possibility of Sepang hosting an F1 race without governmental financial aid, Shafriman responded, “I wouldn’t consider it to be an impossibility. We simply have to identify the appropriate partner to join us. Yet, naturally, when they contribute substantial funds, assets, and similar resources, what advantages do they receive in exchange? Therefore, we must address and deliberate on these matters extensively.
“Nonetheless, in the event that Formula 1 were to make a comeback, we stand ready to organize it. And ideally, the rights fee won’t be a burden for the government.”
The F1 calendar is currently operating at its maximum capacity of 24 races, rendering it challenging to incorporate new or returning circuits in the near future.
Any potential proposal from Malaysia is expected to encounter fierce rivalry from other nations aspiring to secure a place on the calendar, including Thailand, where the government has earmarked $1.2 billion for a street race in Bangkok. It is also understood that Rwanda and Argentina are contending for an F1 spot.
Potential vacancies on the schedule may arise with Zandvoort’s departure after 2026 and Spa-Francorchamps’ integration into the rotation system, which will preclude it from hosting races in 2028 and 2030.
Race Start
Photo by: Shameem Fahath / Motorsport Network
Shafriman recognized that securing a position on an increasingly congested F1 calendar would pose a challenge but emphasized that Sepang’s infrastructure continues to fulfill the necessary criteria.
“There is considerable competition in the market. We are not the sole entity pursuing Formula 1. There are other nations lining up and everything,” he acknowledged. “If you consider all the other circuits globally, they are transforming themselves. They are implementing novel concepts.
“However, concerning the track’s homologation and the amenities available here, we only need to make minor adjustments to ensure readiness for the event itself.”
Sepang’s existing agreement for MotoGP is slated to conclude by the end of 2026, but the circuit is positive about reaching a new long-term arrangement by the commencement of the upcoming year.
Liberty Media, the owner of F1, presently holds a majority share in Dorna Sport, the rights holders for MotoGP.
“Currently, our primary objective and ambition are to maintain the hosting of MotoGP in the future. Additionally, we are hopeful that other international races will be held here apart from MotoGP,” Shafriman stated.
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– The Autosport.com Team
