MotoGP to continue at SIC for another three years

PETALING JAYA: The MotoGP will keep pulses racing at the iconic Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for at least another three years with Petronas coming in as the title sponsor.

Dorna Sports announced yesterday that the SIC will remain on the FIM MotoGP World Championship calendar until at least 2024, with all parties already in discussion to extend the agreement until 2026.

Dorna Sports also announced a new partnership with Petronas that will see the Malaysian oil giant becoming the title sponsor.

The event will be officially named the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia starting from this year, ensuring the brand a key presence in the world championship.

Petronas already has an existing partnership with Dorna Sports as the official fuel supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 grid.

Sepang is a fan and rider favourite, having been on the world championship calendar since 1999.

This new agreement between SIC and Dorna Sports confirms the future of a Grand Prix in one of the sport’s biggest and most passionate markets.

SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said: “I am pleased to inform that we have concluded my first negotiation on the contract extension with Dorna Sports as the CEO of SIC and I would like to extend my gratitude to those who have made this possible.

“With record-breaking crowds year on year, we look forward to welcoming the fans back to Sepang after a two-year break due to the pandemic.’’

Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz, senior general manager, Group Strategic Communications for Petronas, said they are extremely honoured to be the title sponsor of the Grand Prix of Malaysia.

“It is largely considered a key sporting event in Malaysia and Asia. Through this strategic partnership with Dorna Sports, we hope to help re-energise Malaysia’s sports tourism for the benefit of Malaysians and visitors as the world collectively rebounds from the pandemic.”