Malaysia eyes F1 calendar return as PM Anwar confirms talks under way

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hinted at the possibility of Malaysia returning to the Formula One calendar beyond today’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, signaling a potential revival of the Malaysian Grand Prix. The prospect of Malaysia rejoining the F1 circuit was confirmed during a brief exchange with Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle on the grid at the Sepang International Circuit.

Anwar expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Well, I’m looking forward to it. We are discussing.” This marks the first clear indication that Putrajaya is considering extending Malaysia's renewed association with Formula One beyond the one-off event that took place this weekend, marking the sport’s first race at Sepang in nine years.

Despite heavy rain delaying the start, Anwar remained optimistic, stating, “Oh yes. You see, I’m wet, drenched, but excited. You see, the entire country is rejoicing.” The return of Formula One to Sepang, originally scheduled to begin after Bahrain’s race due to security concerns related to Middle Eastern conflict, brings hopes of a permanent return, albeit with significant financial considerations.

Malaysia previously hosted the Formula One race annually from 1999 to 2017, but ceased operations due to high costs and diminishing returns. Currently, the circuit chief executive, Azhan Shafriman Hanif, estimates that Malaysia would need at least RM300 million annually to maintain a regular spot on the F1 calendar, contingent on an available slot.

In contrast, this weekend’s event incurred costs ranging from RM10 million to RM16 million, benefiting from Bahrain’s already significant hosting expenses.