The promoters of Sepang Circuit have clarified the latest news stories around its intention to host F1 and MotoGP races after mix-up.
In their build-up towards the 2025 MotoGP race, the media mixed-up the statement from Sepang Circuit’s Chief Executive Officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif regarding the track hosting the two-wheeler races and wanting Formula 1 back in their fold.
While noting that MotoGP brings lot of value to Malaysia financially, Hanif was quoted about the county hoping to see F1 back in their fold – even though he admitted that it is expensive to host one and turn it into a profitable venture.
Malaysia last hosted F1 in 2017, but continues to host MotoGP strongly. “We do not want to repeat the mistakes of the past,” Hanif was quoted by NST. “We let F1 go and now it is very hard to get it back. I hope we don’t make the same mistake with MotoGP. There is a waiting list to get back in (for F1) and of course, the costs are very expensive.
“We were quoted USD70 million race (about RM295 million) fees (by owners Liberty Media). That is for each event (edition of Malaysian Grand Prix). That does not include our setup costs which are in the region of RM10 to RM20 million for each event. In total, it would cost us more than RM300 million to bring back the race (annually).
“A lot of people (countries) are queuing so it won’t be easy. But if we are really serious about it, then maybe we can start the conversation. It is not just SIC that wants Formula One. Many other stakeholders from both the government as well as the corporate sector also want it back.
“We have to look at how Singapore is hosting it. They have everyone on board in making it a success, from the ministries to the corporate sector to the hotels. Everybody contributes. It has to be like that if we bring it back here. It will take time. Even with MotoGP, it took time for us to increase the ROI.
“The important thing is that everyone (stakeholders) comes together. All this while people view MotoGP and Formula One as SIC’s events, when they are actually national events. We are at the forefront in terms of managing the thing, branding and so on, but essentially they are Malaysian events,” summed up Hanif.
His statement was reported with the view that Sepang wants to host F1 over MotoGP. But the promoters released a media statement clarifying that its immediate intention remains with the two-wheeler racing, even though there is appeal in hosting the pinnacle of racing.
For now, the idea is to extend the current MotoGP deal to keep Malaysian GP on the calendar for beyond the 2026 season. “PETRONAS Sepang international Circuit (SIC) wishes to clarify recent media reports,” it said. “Our Chief Executive Officer’s recent remarks referred specifically to the renewal of MotoGP Malaysia contract beyond 2026, and not in relation to the potential return of Formula 1.
“While Formula 1 remains a significant part of our history, regaining its hosting rights has proven to be both complex and costly. The key priority is safeguarding MotoGP, which continues to resonate strongly with Malaysian fans and remains more accessible from both a spectator and organisational standpoint.
“At present, Malaysia’s contract to host MotoGP runs until 2026. SIC is fully committed to working closely with the Government through Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS), as well as with Dorna Sports S.L and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the continuation of this world-class and longest running international event in Malaysia.
“SIC will continue to provide comprehensive data and insights on the economic, tourism and developmental impact to support informed decision-making on its future in Malaysia. We value the passion shown by the public and stakeholders on this matter and reaffirm our commitment to securing the future of MotoGP in Malaysia for the benefit of fans, partners and the nation.”
