The return of Formula 1 (F1) to Malaysian soil next month could contribute up to RM1.3bil in total economic output, while providing additional boost to tourism-related services and supporting the current account surplus, according to Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) Research. From 02-04 Oct 2026, the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will host the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix as one-off replacement to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, making F1's first return to Malaysia since 2017. Unlike Malaysia's 1999 to 2017 tenure as a full-season host, the HLIB brokerage said "This iteration is likely to offer better economics. The upcoming race will coincide nicely with the Visit Malaysia 2026, increasing the likelihood of higher-spending from the affluent audience. (https://www.sepangcircuit.com / www.hlebroking.com.my>research-F1-2026<)
Capitalizing on the upcoming F1 race, Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), Jabatan Belia dan Sukan Negara (JBSN), and SIC organized the 5.4 KM Night Circuit Running Experience (one full lap around the world-class track) at Paddock South (Pit 1, Pit 2 & Pit 3) SIC on 04 September, 2026. More than 7,000 participants joint the night run, officially launched by Minister of Youth and Sports, YB Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari. Participant timing and records were managed via SportSplits. To add the excitement, side activities included Pound Fitness sessions, Zumba/aerobics. light displays, music, and lucky draws.
For the first time, my youngest son, Fariz Azmir from Putrajaya participated in this Circuit Dash KBS x SIC Run and the recurring of SIC Time Out initiative have proven that there is a massive appetite among locals for non-engine track experience. I understand, moving forward, SIC is leveraging its permanent 64-pole, 150-lux floodlight system, originally installed for after-dark GT racing - to consistently double its track hours for public wellness sport events.
The organizers said, "Instead of sporadic standalone runs, the track's management is leaning heavily into structured community nights. The main goal is to make night running, mass cycling sessions (like Motorsport Free Night), and inline skating a predictable, recurring staple of the Selangor sports calendar.
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