“F1 Brings Branding”: Iconic Circuit Announces Interest in Returning to the F1 Calendar

According to the latest reports, a potential F1 return to Malaysia could be on the cards. Recently, circuit authorities confirmed that they were open to hosting a race in Sepang if the opportunity arises. The Malaysian Grand Prix was last held in 2017, following which the circuit was dropped from the calendar.

Can the Malaysian Grand Prix return to the F1 calendar?

The news of F1 dropping the Malaysian Grand Prix didn’t go down too well with many fans. The Sepang International Circuit is a unique race track that boasts of some high-speed corners and a fairly complex track layout. Until its cancelation, the Malaysian Grand Prix provided some exciting races and battles over the years.

Some of the more notable races and incidents include – The infamous ‘Multi-21’ debacle, Lewis’ Hamilton’s engine spectacularly blowing up and Sebastian Vettel’s first win with Ferrari. The Sepang International Circuit has sealed drivers’ Championship fates and has caused irreparable damage to teammates’ relationship over the years.

Interestingly, Mercedes’ last win at the track came all the way back in 2014. The Brackley outfit hasn’t done too well in Malaysia and has been beaten by rivals in terms of strategy or suffered reliability issues.

One of the more memorable moments from Malaysia was Vettel’s first win while donning the Scarlet suit. The German drove a fantastic race in only his second Grand Prix for the Scuderia to finally put an end to Mercedes’ winning streak. Getting a classic race track back on the calendar would do no harm at all.

Track authorities remain open to a possible F1 return. Speaking to Bernama, SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said:

“ It (hosting the F1 again) is not on my top priority at the moment, but if the opportunity comes by and the offer is good, I’m very supportive of this idea because this event (F1) brings the branding part of Malaysia.

“Let’s say if we agree to host the F1 race for a longer period”

“we will hold a discussion with the government since the hosting fee is not cheap”

“and also the money that we spend must be worthy to the government and also the fans,” 

With F1 nudging towards street circuits, a conventional, race track return will make for some proper racing action.