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2d ago

Malaysia Rules Out F1 Return for Now as Costs and Calendar Constraints Bite

Malaysia’s sports minister cited RM300 million in yearly fees and a packed schedule, saying only a privately financed proposal would be entertained.

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The field waits to restart following a rain delay during the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix at the Sepang Circuit on March 25, 2012 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Overview

  • Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh told parliament on Aug 21 that there are no current plans to revive the Malaysian Grand Prix.
  • Hosting would cost about RM300 million per year under a three-to-five-year contract with Liberty Media, with Yeoh adding the circuit needs roughly RM10 million annually to meet top-tier standards.
  • Officials warned the Formula 1 calendar is already tight, with Malaysia competing against established Singapore and Thailand’s cabinet-backed bid for a 2028 Bangkok street race.
  • The government said it would consider a privately funded bid and directed interested companies to engage Sepang International Circuit, following past reports linking Petronas that the firm said did not reflect any talks.
  • Sepang’s chief executive said F1 quoted a US$70 million hosting fee per race, while the circuit prioritises MotoGP renewal through 2026 after drawing about 185,000 spectators and RM329 million in economic impact last year, supporting 4,493 jobs.