SIC promises cheaper parking, easier access for Malaysian MotoGP

Azhan Shafriman Hanif, CEO of the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), has announced that access to the venue for the upcoming Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia MotoGP event on October 30-November 1 will be more convenient and cost-effective than the recent Formula One race held at the same track in Bahrain. At a press conference, Hanif revealed that motorcycle parking will be available for attendees, which was not the case during the F1 race.

Parking fees will be charged in Malaysian Ringgit, rather than US Dollars, similar to the approach taken for the Malaysian GP last year. The organization aims to keep the parking prices comparable to those of the previous year. Motorcycles will be permitted to enter the circuit, reflecting the primary focus of the event. Additionally, e-hailing cars will be allowed to drop off and pick up passengers at the venue, alongside regular buses arriving from different locations.

During the Bahrain GP, which took place from October 2-4, motorcycles were prohibited from parking at the track and fans were encouraged to use public transportation to reach the circuit. This move resulted in several challenges, such as significant waiting times for the initial days of the event. SIC, serving as a venue provider for the Bahrain International Circuit, had limited influence over the decision-making process during that F1 race. However, for the Malaysian GP, the organization will have full control.

Hanif emphasized the necessity of upgrading the transportation infrastructure at the circuit, opened in 1999, to accommodate the increasing number of attendees. He pointed out that a train stop at the track would significantly alleviate traffic congestion. Last year, the Malaysian GP drew a record-breaking attendance of 190,997 fans over three days, and SIC is targeting a figure exceeding 200,000 for this year's event.