FIA president: Malaysia needs five-year business plan for F1 return

Malaysia requires a minimum five-year business plan encompassing commercial, promotional, and logistical elements for a potential return to Formula One (F1), according to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The FIA chief stated that while the possibility of Malaysia joining the F1 calendar remains open, any move would necessitate meticulous planning.

The president, who was in Malaysia for the Bahrain Grand Prix held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), highlighted the circuit's capability to host F1, praising its commercial strength and the improvements made since the last F1 event. However, Ben Sulayem emphasized that a comprehensive business plan covering at least five years would be crucial for any bid to host F1 permanently.

He noted that Malaysia possesses a strong motorsport foundation and that the SIC's experience in organizing F1 remains intact, ensuring smooth event management. Ben Sulayem also stressed that the FIA prefers adding more teams to the championship rather than increasing the number of races, aiming for a legally expanded calendar from the current 24 to potentially 25 races.

The Motorsports Association of Malaysia president, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, expressed confidence in SIC's ability to host F1, crediting its experience in organizing F1 events. He supported the idea of a long-term business plan, highlighting the circuit's logistical prowess and the revitalization of Malaysia's motorsport community.

Ben Sulayem commended the logistical cooperation between Malaysian and Bahraini personnel during the Bahrain Grand Prix, praising the harmonization and cooperation evident on the ground. He stressed that Malaysia should explore broader motorsport ambitions, including accessible forms of motorsport such as karting, cross-car racing, and rallying, to cater to its enthusiastic fan base.