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SHAH ALAM – The roar of Formula One (F1) engines could return to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) as the Youth and Sports Ministry evaluates the possibility of hosting a race in October should a slot become available on the F1 calendar.
Its minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said the ministry has received preliminary signals about Malaysia's potential return to the championship, although discussions remain at an early stage.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the ministry have received preliminary notification of the possibility of hosting an F1 race in Malaysia, which last staged the event in 2017.
"The ministry remains committed to supporting the growth of national sports, including motorsports," Taufiq said in a statement, adding that further updates will be made once details are finalised.
The prospect of F1 returning to Malaysia has generated excitement, but industry observers said any bid must be financially sustainable.
Veteran sports journalist Graig Nunis said a return would be welcome, provided it makes sense on the balance sheet.
"It would be great to have an F1 race back in Malaysia, although under unfortunate circumstances. Whether it makes economic sense, it would depend on Formula One Management (FOM) or Liberty Media.
"Will they waive the hosting fees or at least offer a discount since Malaysia is coming to the rescue? People will always show up because it’s a massive event, but the financial terms need to align," Nunis told Sinar Daily.
With the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign already driving international arrivals, a sudden F1 return could serve as a massive catalyst for tourism.
Given Malaysia's deep-rooted history with F1, capitalising on this sudden opening could yield huge economic dividends, provided the hosting structure remains financially viable.
However, the buzz surrounding F1 has also reignited debates on where national resources should be focused
Motorsport analyst and sports enthusiast Afi Roshezry cautioned that the spotlight on high-profile global events must not overshadow the nation's rising local stars.
A prime example, he said was Muhammad Hakim Danish Ramli, the Terengganu-born motor racing prodigy currently flying the Jalur Gemilang on the international stage in the Moto3 World Championship.
"Whether or not we host F1, Malaysia has incredible local talent that cannot be allowed to go to waste," Afi said, emphasising that the ministry must maintain a strong commitment to long-term talent development alongside hosting major events.
He said hosting a last-minute F1 Grand Prix would undoubtedly put Malaysia back on the global motorsport map and deliver an undeniable boost to tourism.
However, as the government deliberates, he said the decision ultimately hinges on a delicate balance on securing favorable financial terms from Liberty Media while ensuring local talent development is not left in the pit lane.
