PETALING JAYA: Formula One is set to make its long-awaited return to Malaysia after nearly a decade, with the Bahrain Grand Prix confirmed to be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) as a one-off replacement due to the Middle East conflict.
The race marks Formula One’s first appearance in Malaysia since the final Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017, giving local fans the chance to once again witness the pinnacle of motorsport on home soil.
Former SIC chief executive officer Datuk Razlan Razali described the development as a significant win for Malaysia, saying the country was well placed to host the event because of its proven track record and strategic location.
“This is a great opportunity for Malaysia and Malaysian fans. It’s been nine years since Formula One was last held in Sepang, and an entire generation of fans has never experienced a live Formula One race in Malaysia,” he said.
Razlan said Formula One’s popularity had grown tremendously since Malaysia last hosted a race, fuelled in part by Netflix’s Drive to Survive series, which has attracted younger audiences worldwide.
“The sport has changed significantly. Young fans who discovered Formula One through Drive to Survive can now finally experience the excitement of a race at their home circuit,” he said.
Beyond motorsport, Razlan said the event would provide a valuable platform to promote Malaysia internationally.
“Formula One offers tremendous global exposure. It is an opportunity to showcase Malaysia as a world-class destination while complementing the country’s tourism efforts,” he said.
He said that Sepang remained one of the most suitable venues to host a replacement race due to its established infrastructure and favourable location.
“Logistically and geographically, Malaysia is an ideal choice. Sepang already has the facilities and operational experience required to host Formula One,” he said.
Writer Ryan Tan, 25, said the announcement is a dream come true after becoming a devoted McLaren supporter in 2019.
“I started watching Formula One because I became interested in motorsports, and McLaren immediately became my favourite team.
“I’ve stayed up countless nights watching races, but now I hope that I’ll get to see Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri race in Malaysia,” he said.
“I’ve already started planning which ticket to buy because this is probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he added.
University student Lim Jia En, 22, credits Drive to Survive and the recently released Formula One movie for turning her into a fan.
“I’ve only ever watched Formula One on screen, so seeing the drivers in person would be crazy.
“I’m bringing a few caps with me because I’m really hoping to get an autograph. Especially Charles Leclerc!” she said.
