Accra:The government is evaluating the potential economic benefits of hosting Formula One (F1) races annually at the Sepang International Circuit before deciding on a permanent return of the event.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment due to the significant costs associated with hosting F1 and the importance of evaluating feasibility and return on investment. Although the Bahrain F1 Grand Prix in Malaysia from October 2 to 4 is projected to generate RM950 million in economic returns, the government is considering whether such benefits could be sustained with an annual event.
Ticket sales in 2017 were about 30,000, a number which has surged to nearly 100,000 this year. There is also a proposal to host the race intermittently in collaboration with another country, but this idea remains in its early stages.
The Youth and Sports Ministry has been tasked with leading an F1 evaluation committee, involving various ministries and the Chief Secretary to the Government, to assess hosting costs, ROI, and infrastructure readiness. The evaluation report is expected by the end of November, after which it will be presented to the Cabinet for a final decision.
Dr. Mohammed Taufiq assured that any decision regarding F1 would not affect budget allocations for athlete development and other sports. In response to queries about motorsports talent development, he mentioned that RM5.6 million has been allocated in 2025 for 29 programmes across various motorsports disciplines. Current grassroots development efforts include initiatives such as motocross, go-karting, drifting, rallying, and minibike racing.
Additionally, the ministry, through the Sepang International Circuit, is supporting local racing talent via events like the Malaysia Touring Car Championship and the Sepang 1000km. The minister expressed gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for their roles in maintaining good diplomatic relations with Bahrain, facilitating the hosting of the Bahrain F1 GP.
The F1's return to Malaysia is a result of discussions and cooperation involving Sultan Ibrahim, Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, and the governments of both countries, ensuring the Bahrain GP remains on the 2026 F1 calendar after its earlier cancellation due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.