{
  "id": 13692586,
  "title": "FIA sees bigger motorsport role for Malaysia beyond F1",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/fia-sees-bigger-motorsport-role-for-malaysia-beyond-f1",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-11T10:20:48.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news-cars-bikes-trucks/2026/10/1553180/fia-sees-bigger-motorsport-role-malaysia-beyond-f1"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malaysia has successfully reestablished itself on the global motorsport stage following the return of Formula 1 (F1) racing at Sepang. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem believes that Malaysia's motorsport credentials extend far beyond F1 and that the country has the potential to become a broader motorsport hub. This includes fostering a passionate fan base, a growing pool of enthusiasts, and a strong racing culture.\n\nBen Sulayem urged Malaysia to focus on multiple FIA racing disciplines, such as the World Rally Championship, Formula E, World Endurance Championship, and cross-country events, in addition to nurturing grassroots talent through karting and rallying. He emphasized the importance of providing affordable racing options to encourage participation and development.\n\nThe FIA president highlighted Malaysia's strong motorsport following, noting that the return of international racing at Sepang demonstrated that interest had not waned despite the nine-year absence of F1. The knowledgeable and passionate fans, along with the well-informed officials, showcased Malaysia's culture of motorsport excellence.\n\nBen Sulayem was particularly impressed by the harmonization between Malaysian and Bahraini officials, praising their effective collaboration on the ground. He highlighted that Malaysia's motorsport passion had remained dormant but was ready to showcase its enthusiasm upon the return of F1.\n\nAdditionally, Ben Sulayem emphasized the potential of Malaysia and the wider Asia Pacific region to contribute more to the global motorsport ecosystem. The region's economic strength, manufacturing base, and diverse automotive culture present ample opportunities for growth.\n\nFor Malaysia, Ben Sulayem suggested that the renewed attention on Sepang could serve as a springboard for a wider motorsport strategy. By building on the momentum generated by the memorable race, the country could potentially transform Sepang's return into more than just a one-off encore but rather the reopening of a door to the global racing world.",
  "summary": "THE successful return to the Formula 1 (F1) spotlight at Sepang has put Malaysia’s motorsport credentials back on the global stage and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem believes the chequered flag should be only the beginning.",
  "key_points": [
    "Malaysia poised to expand motorsport role beyond F1, according to FIA president.",
    "Strong fan base and motorsport culture in Malaysia seen as assets for global racing expansion."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "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."
}