F1 return to Sepang possible but Malaysia needs a five
The FIA has indicated that Malaysia could return to the Formula 1 calendar if the government provides a credible five-year business plan. Officials emphasize that any bid must demonstrate strong economic and tourism benefits to justify the investment.
Why it matters
Hosting F1 is a major economic undertaking that requires significant government backing and strategic planning to ensure long-term viability.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has given Malaysia a clear route back to the Formula 1 calendar but there are several factors to consider before this potentially happens, according to a report by NST . FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said that Formula 1’s return to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will depend on a credible, long-term business plan backed by the government and strong fan demand. He added that Malaysia has the track, motorsport heritage and fan base to support a return, but any bid must show that hosting F1 makes commercial, tourism and economic sense for the country. “If Malaysia wants to go back to F1, I said it very clearly: a plan, a five-year business plan, knowing how you will cover it,” said Ben Sulayem.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in