Malaysia Considers Bringing Formula 1 Back as Government Weighs Costs and Benefits
Following a RM950 million economic windfall from its recent Grand Prix hosting, the Malaysian government forms a working committee to evaluate a permanent or shared return for Sepang on the F1 calendar.
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia is actively evaluating a permanent return to the Formula 1 World Championship calendar, with government officials confirming Thursday that a dedicated cabinet assessment is underway to weigh the financial commitments against long-term economic returns.
Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Johari Abdul Ghani addressed parliament on October 15, confirming that a joint working committee between the ministry and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has been established. The committee’s findings and financial feasibility models are scheduled for cabinet presentation by November.
The momentum follows significant economic success at Sepang, where recent Grand Prix hosting generated an estimated RM950 million ($233 million USD) in economic output across tourism, hospitality, and local commerce.
However, government officials stressed that any formal bid remains contingent on disciplined budget allocation. While Sepang maintains its FIA Grade 1 rating and proven operational capability, rising hosting fees and long-term sustainability remain key considerations for cabinet members.
Among the strategic options under review is a potential shared or alternating race hosting framework with another host country—a model designed to mitigate annual hosting costs while keeping Sepang on the global motorsport map.
With the crucial November cabinet review approaching, Formula 1 management and Asian motorsport enthusiasts alike are closely watching whether one of the sport's most iconic modern circuits will secure its full-time comeback.