It’s confirmed – Malaysian MotoGP is off after 20 years

SIC chief executive officer (CEO) Azhan Shafriman Hanif

PETALING JAYA: It was a long-expected announcement. The Malaysian leg of the World Motorcycle Grand Prix is off.

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has pulled the plug on the grand prix due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and it becomes the latest cancellation of fly-away rounds, joining the US, Argentina and Thailand.

This is the first time the Malaysian Grand Prix will not be hosted after more than 20 years.

Malaysia has been the longest serving venue for the Grand Prix in South East Asia since 1991 and the SIC has been a permanent fixture on the calendar after taking over from the Shah Alam Circuit and Johor Circuit in 1999.

SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said they could not risk the health of everyone involved and opted to scrap the race.

“We are truly disappointed about this cancellation and actually, we are looking forward to watch the actions on home ground especially from our local boys, Kasma Daniel, Khairul Idham Pawi, Hafizh Syahrin and the Petronas-Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT) who have had a great start to the season, ” he said yesterday.

SRT’s Fabio Quartararo has won both the premier class MotoGP races held so far in Spain.

“With the ongoing Covid-19, the safety of all is the main priority, we can’t afford to risk the health of others.”

“I’m sure this is sad news for MotoGP fans in Malaysia and all over the world who have made the event what it is today. We have seen an increasing number of spectators for the Malaysian Grand Prix year-on-year and we thank all fans and partners for their continuous support.”

“The best thing to do right now is to keep supporting our local boys and team who are still racing in the championship. We hope to come back bigger and better for Malaysian Grand Prix 2021, ” said Azhan.

SIC thanked race organisers Dorna Sports, the Youth and Sports Ministry, Finance Ministry, title sponsors Shell Malaysia and all partners for their support.