Kuala Lampur:Motorcyclists will be prohibited from entering the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) area during the Formula 1 (F1) Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif announced the restriction as part of a joint traffic management plan with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure smooth traffic flow during the event.

The decision to restrict access stems from past experiences where unrestricted vehicle entry led to severe congestion during major motorsports events. Since the circuit's inception 27 years ago, allowing all vehicles access has consistently caused heavy traffic both in and out of the circuit.

Azhan Shafriman emphasized that this new strategy involves prohibiting public motorcycle entry and limiting access to vehicles with valid parking stickers or passes. He encouraged visitors without parking passes to use public transport, e-hailing services, or the free shuttle buses provided throughout the race weekend.

The event will feature 115 free shuttle buses operating from four strategic locations: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2, KLIA Long-Term Car Park, Mitsui Outlet Park, and Bandar Enstek. Additionally, 30 free shuttle buses will operate non-stop within the circuit from 7 am to midnight.

KLIA police chief ACP M. Ravi reported that eight checkpoints would have strict screening roadblocks and traffic diversions starting Friday morning. A deployment of 700 Selangor Contingent personnel will manage traffic flow and conduct patrols to ensure visitor safety and comfort. Ravi also advised that only those with valid event tickets or vehicle parking stickers should attempt to enter the SIC, as others will be denied entry.