Will Malaysia Secure a Return to the Formula 1 Calendar?

Malaysia is exploring the possibility of a permanent return to the Formula 1 calendar at the Sepang International Circuit, with options including an annual race or a rotational hosting deal with another country. The move follows the extraordinary staging of this year's Bahrain Grand Prix at the Malaysian track, which injected an estimated $233 million into the local economy.

Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari informed parliament that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has already held preliminary discussions with Formula 1 management regarding a potential comeback for the championship.

Between 1999 and 2017, Sepang was a staple of the F1 calendar before dropping off due to declining spectator numbers and soaring hosting costs. The circuit returned to the global spotlight from October 2–4, stepping in to stage the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix.

Record Crowds and Massive Fan Interest

According to Ministry of Youth and Sports figures, the race weekend drew around 261,000 motorsport fans, with 103,000 attending on race day alone. Total revenue reported by Formula 1 management reached nearly 950 million Malaysian ringgit.

Ticket sales surpassed 97,000, attracting more than 50,000 international tourists and approximately 5,000 foreign workers. Comparing the turnout to the final regular race in 2017, Minister Johari noted:

An inter-agency committee, led by the Chief Secretary to the Government, is currently assessing the overall costs, projected return on investment, and the circuit's infrastructure. The comprehensive report is expected to be finalized by late November before being submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

Speaking to Reuters, Minister Johari addressed the financial realities of hosting the championship:

He added that the government must determine whether such economic returns can be sustained year after year and ensure the facilities meet the required standards. Johari also stressed that any funding allocated to Formula 1 must not compromise budgets earmarked for grassroots sports development and national athletes.

Hosting fees and fierce calendar competition

This year's emergency event operated under a unique financial arrangement, with Bahrain covering the sanction fees in partnership with Sepang Circuit management. According to Kursiv, preparations cost Malaysia between 10 and 16 million ringgit, compared to previous estimates for an annual hosting fee of around 300 million ringgit (approximately $73 million).

Sharing a slot on the calendar would not be unprecedented in modern F1. Under existing arrangements, the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit is slated to host races in 2027, 2029, and 2031, alternating with Barcelona in 2028, 2030, and 2032.

However, securing a place on the schedule remains fiercely competitive. The news from Malaysia comes shortly after the Rwandan government agreed a 10-year deal with Formula 1 to host a Grand Prix in Kigali, with a debut planned for 2030 at the earliest.