The return of the traditional circuit to F1? Petronas pushes for return of Malaysian Grand Prix, but there’s a catch

For fans of traditional racing circuits and opponents of the ever-increasing urban tracks, this is absolutely great news. Indeed, Petronas is reportedly pushing for the return of the Malaysian Grand Prix to the F1 calendar. But the problem may be the finances associated with the high cost of staging the race.

The Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang circuit first entered the F1 calendar in the 1999 season. The first ever race here was won by Eddie Irvine ahead of Michael Schumacher (both Ferraris), who had a one-second lead at the finish.

It should be noted that races under the name “Malaysian Grand Prix” were held in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. But back then, it was in Singapore, which now has its own grand prix.

However, in modern history, counting just around 2000, the Malaysian Grand Prix is considered to be the one at the Sepang International Circuit. It featured on the F1 calendar from the 1999 season until 2017. Since then, the queen of motorsport has not visited this traditional circuit.

This was due to the then declining number of tickets sold. And also the ever-increasing cost of staging the grand prix itself. However, Sepang continues to host MotoGP races and other motorsport events.

But that could change in the coming years, specifically in 2026. As Reuters reported on its website, Petronas, which incidentally has also been a partner of Mercedes since the 2010 season, is pushing for the return of this traditional circuit to the F1 calendar.

Petronas is pushing for the return of the Malaysian Grand Prix to the F1 calendar

However, the reasons why the Malaysian oil company wants to return the Sepang circuit to the F1 calendar have not yet been specified. Based on what are said to be three well-informed sources, Petronas, SIC and Formula 1 have not yet officially commented on the issue.

“If we could host an F1 race, we would have done it already. But we can’t afford it yet,” Malaysian Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said last year. The catch, then, is again financial. But on the other hand, it is the financial support of Petronas that could play a huge role.

So this could be the difference and the reason why there is a light at the end of the tunnel for Sepang regarding a return to the F1 calendar.

Source: F1, Reuters, X