Significant economic gains make strong case for F1 return, says Mokhzani

MAM president Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir has emphasized that bidding for the Malaysian Grand Prix is not the responsibility of the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM). Instead, it is for the government to evaluate the positive economic implications and make a decision regarding the revival of the popular Formula One event. Mokhzani noted that the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) still possesses the necessary management capabilities to accommodate Formula 1 and is capable of hosting the ongoing Bahrain Grand Prix.

He stressed that the economic impact extends well beyond the circuit, and the significant multiplier effect should be taken into consideration by the government when contemplating the organization of the Malaysia GP once more. The Malaysia GP previously graced the Formula One calendar from 1999 to 2017, and SIC currently hosts the Bahrain GP due to the political unrest in the Middle East.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman Hamad Al-Khalifa, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, as well as other Cabinet ministers, have been extended an invitation to witness the race on Sunday. Mokhzani stated that Anwar and the ministers will have the opportunity to observe the response of Malaysians and international visitors to Formula 1 at Sepang. He firmly believes that it is not an issue of MAM bidding for the event but rather up to the government to decide.

Mokhzani acknowledged that most Cabinet ministers would be present at the SIC circuit on Sunday to watch Formula 1, including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He continued, "We can already see the economic impact extending beyond the circuit — to hotels, food and beverage outlets, restaurants, airlines, and other sectors.

We can study and measure whether it is worthwhile to bring Formula 1 back to Malaysia." However, Mokhzani also pointed out that this specific race and partnership with Bahrain present an unusual circumstance, which may not recur in the future. Therefore, the decision to stage the Malaysia GP should be based on whether the circuit possesses the financial capacity and resources, which must be studied.

From the perspective of the circuit's capability, Mokhzani expressed confidence that SIC can host the event. However, it remains to be seen if the financial resources and capabilities are available. Mokhzani expressed his confidence that, upon reassessing the economic impact, the multiplier effect will be deemed significant, and people can appreciate the value that Formula 1 brings to Malaysia.

As for MAM, the association remains enthusiastic about hosting Formula 1, similar to their desire to continue supporting MotoGP. However, the decision ultimately lies with the government, taking into account the financial resources and funding required.

Mokhzani stated that the ideal arrangement for hosting the Malaysia GP would be a three-plus-two-year contract, as opposed to hosting a race on behalf of others. This contract would allow Formula 1 management to schedule MAM into the calendar yearly, thereby simplifying planning. Mokhzani also highlighted that the unique opportunity to host the Bahrain GP arose due to the political unrest in the Middle East, which prevented Formula 1 from taking place there or caused initial uncertainty.

Additionally, the proximity of Singapore allowed for the easy transportation of the event, as it could be loaded onto a DHL van and transported to the next destination. Mokhzani expressed the hope that peace and stability will be maintained in those areas so that they can host races as scheduled.