Sepang International Circuit (SIC) confirms Formula 1 will not return to Malaysia, as CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif stresses focus on MotoGP beyond 2026. Learn about MotoGP’s record attendance and economic impact at Sepang.
Formula 1 Rumours Debunked
Despite recent speculation in certain Malaysian online media outlets, Formula 1 is not making a comeback to Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
At a press conference on MotoGP contract renewals, SIC Chief Executive Officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif clarified that there is no official discussion regarding the return of Formula 1. The statement comes amid renewed interest among motorsport fans after Singapore, Japan, and China confirmed their places on the Formula 1 calendar.
“There is no relation to F1’s potential return. Our focus remains on MotoGP and ensuring it continues to deliver value for Malaysia,” said Azhan.
MotoGP Contract Extended Until 2026
Sepang currently holds the contract to host MotoGP until the end of 2026, working closely with:
- Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS)
- Dorna Sports, MotoGP’s global franchise holder
According to Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, the decision to extend beyond 2026 will depend on data-driven evaluation of MotoGP’s benefits to Malaysia.
She emphasized that SIC must present a convincing case to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to justify the continued investment.
Economic Impact of MotoGP in Malaysia
Hosting MotoGP in Malaysia has been economically significant:
- A 2024 economic impact study showed MotoGP delivered 6.3 times return on investment (ROI) for Malaysia.
- The 2024 Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia at Sepang drew a record attendance of 184,923 fans over the race weekend.
- SIC is targeting 200,000+ attendees for the 2025 MotoGP (October 23–26), which would mark another milestone.
MotoGP generates tourism revenue, boosts local businesses, and enhances Malaysia’s position as a global motorsport destination.
Why Formula 1 Isn’t Returning (For Now)
Malaysia last hosted Formula 1 in 2017, when rising hosting fees, coupled with declining ticket sales, led to the government discontinuing the race.
Some reasons why a comeback is unlikely in the short term:
- High hosting fees: Estimated at USD 35–40 million (≈RM164–188 million) annually, compared to MotoGP’s lower cost.
- Tourism overlap: Malaysia relies heavily on regional fans, but Singapore, Shanghai, and Suzuka already host F1 races.
- Government priorities: Current emphasis is on cost-effective international sports events with clear ROI.
Sepang’s Role in Regional Motorsport
Even without F1, Sepang remains a motorsport hub for Southeast Asia:
- MotoGP: Flagship annual event with rising attendance
- FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC): Returning to Sepang in 2025
- Asian Le Mans Series, GT World Challenge Asia, and endurance racing continue to use Sepang as a base
- Track days and corporate events keep the circuit active year-round
With the growing global shift toward sustainable motorsport, Sepang may also explore EV racing series like Formula E or electric motorcycle championships in the future.
Conclusion: MotoGP is Sepang’s Priority
While rumours of Formula 1 returning to Malaysia have excited motorsport enthusiasts, SIC has firmly denied such plans. Instead, the focus remains on ensuring that MotoGP delivers long-term value for Malaysia.
With record-breaking attendance, strong ROI, and government support, MotoGP at Sepang looks set to remain a pillar of Malaysian motorsport well beyond 2026 — even if Formula 1 stays away.
