{
  "id": 12050096,
  "title": "PM: Malaysia Open To Hosting F1 Again, But Discussions Still At Early Stage",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/pm-malaysia-open-to-hosting-f1-again-but-discussions-still-at-early",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-05T01:44:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Lowyat.NET",
    "slug": "lowyat-net",
    "url": "https://www.lowyat.net/2026/406255/malaysia-open-to-hosting-f1-again/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malaysia is considering hosting Formula 1 (F1) once more, following a successful event at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this past weekend. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that discussions have begun with F1 President Stefano Domenicali, though the matter is still in its early stages. Anwar emphasized that the decision would require careful consideration of the benefits and costs associated with hosting the race. The Sepang International Circuit has the capability and experience to once again host F1, according to Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, president of the Motorsports Associations of Malaysia (MAM). Mokhzani suggested a potential five-year \"3+2\" contract as an ideal arrangement, which would provide stability for both spectators and F1 management. The strong response to the recent race, which attracted 105,000 spectators, indicates that there remains significant interest in F1 among Malaysian fans. Local traders also benefited from the event through the Karnival Litar Rasa MADANI, a carnival held at the G Hillstand in conjunction with the 2026 Gulf Air Bahrain GP. However, the return of F1 to Malaysia's calendar remains a possibility, contingent on further discussions and an assessment of economic benefits.",
  "summary": "Malaysia hosted Formula 1 (F1) again over the weekend, with the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) stepping in as a replacement venue for the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The successful event may naturally raise the question of whether Malaysia could consider bringing the race back to Sepang on its own. According to Prime Minister Datuk […] The post PM: Malaysia Open To Hosting F1 Again, But…",
  "key_points": [
    "Malaysia open to hosting F1 again, discussions early stage.",
    "Sepang International Circuit can host F1, MAM president says.",
    "105,000 spectators attended recent race, indicating interest."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Malaysia's openness to hosting F1 again signals a potential revival of the sport in the country, which could boost local businesses and validate the Sepang International Circuit's continued relevance.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}