Liberty Media has altered the face of Formula 1, leading to new venues taking over slots once held by traditional circuits on its Formula One calendar. This has had particular ramifications on iconic European tracks like Belgium’s Spa circuit which may feature on it from 2026 as part of a rotating schedule. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has stated that historical significance does not guarantee a track’s inclusion but did note previously featured Grand Prix locations like Malaysia could still return as possible candidates.
Roadmap for the Malaysian GP’s Potential Return to F1
Formula 1’s circuit roster often sparks debate among fans, with certain tracks more popular among some than others for their ability to provide exciting races. Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia had long been considered an outstanding venue, noted for its unique layout and unpredictable climate that often resulted in memorable races over recent decades. Unfortunately, when competition for calendar spots decreased and renewal contracts weren’t an immediate requirement of F1, Malaysia GP organizers made the unfortunate choice not renew their contract with F1. CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif later considered this decision an error which many consider an expensive misstep on his part despite his best intentions of renewing his previous deal – now seen by fans alike as having made wrong choice by opting not renewing his original deal and not renewing F1.
Hanif admits the journey back to hosting an F1 race is fraught with challenges but remains achievable. He highlights the collective desire, not just from Sepang International Circuit but also from government and corporate stakeholders, to see F1 return to Malaysia. Learning from Singapore’s successful event hosting model, Hanif believes a unified effort is necessary for a successful bid to host the Grand Prix again.
Assessing the Feasibility of Malaysia’s F1 Return
Sepang Circuit stands out for both its history of exciting races as well as being capable of accommodating current-generation F1 cars; something not easily accomplished at other venues. Securing an F1 slot again presents significant financial hurdles; race fees have reportedly reached $70 million annually – yet with strategic planning and support from various sectors, Malaysia could make an effective case to Liberty Media that Sepang should return in future seasons.
Though a return by 2026 seems unlikely, contract expirations opens the possibility of its return in 2027 or 2028. Competition remains strong however with other circuits like Portimao and Istanbul also competing to host slots on F1 calendar, making Malaysian Grand Prix’s comeback an effort with stiff odds to succeed.