Sepang eyes F1 return with Cabinet proposal due in November

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 — The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is preparing a feasibility study to consider bringing back the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix to Malaysia, with the proposal expected to be submitted to the Cabinet in November. SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif revealed that the team is engaging with the government, relevant agencies, and industry players to gather precise data for the study.

The findings will be crucial in informing the government's decision on whether Malaysia should host the prestigious race again. During this phase, SIC aims to hold engagement sessions with key stakeholders to ensure the accuracy of the data presented. The study will focus on the economic impact of hosting F1, as well as assessing Malaysia's readiness, particularly in managing traffic congestion and public transport facilities.

Azhan Shafriman described Malaysia's chances of hosting F1 as a 50-50 proposition, pending the government's review of the study's results. As for serving as an alternative venue for international races amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, SIC has not yet received any inquiries from conflict-affected countries, but remains open to discussions if needed, considering the time required for race preparation.

Malaysia last hosted an F1 race in 2017; nine years later, the venue returned as the host of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 from October 2-4.