Malaysia in talks to host F1 again, says PM Anwar
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Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (back row, centre) on the podium behind 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix winner Max Verstappen at the Sepang International Circuit on Oct 4.
PHOTO: EPA
- Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed government talks to bring Formula One racing back to Malaysia, without specifying a date.
- Heavy rain delayed the F1 race at Sepang International Circuit, but the event resumed with strong enthusiasm from fans and officials.
- Anwar praised the affordable Madani tickets and the Litar Rasa Madani Carnival, highlighting support for local businesses and lively race atmosphere.
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PETALING JAYA – Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government was actively discussing the return of Formula 1 racing to the country.
“I am looking forward to it. We are discussing it,” Anwar said in an interview with international sports outlet Sky Sports, while attending the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit on Oct 4.
He did not, however, confirm any date or further details on whether Malaysia would resume hosting F1 races annually.
Earlier, heavy rain caused the F1 race to be delayed, with the medical car reporting a “significant amount of standing water” around the track.
The race, scheduled to start at 3pm, received the green light to start at 4.35pm.
Asked if he was more used to the weather than foreign guests at the circuit, the soaked but ecstatic Prime Minister agreed, adding that his excitement was shared by the celebrating Malaysians.
“I’m wet, drenched, but excited. You see, the entire country is rejoicing,” he said.
While at the event, Anwar also took the opportunity to meet attendees who had bought Madani tickets.
These tickets were priced at RM200 (S$63) for the three-day event and offered to Malaysians with a valid MyKad identity card to provide more people with the opportunity to experience the race in person.
Anwar said that the atmosphere there was lively, with a great view of the circuit.
He also praised the Litar Rasa Madani Carnival, where he said racegoers could enjoy the action on the track while supporting local businesses.
The top leaders of Malaysia, Bahrain and Brunei who were at the race included Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his son, Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who won the last F1 Grand Prix race held in Malaysia in 2017, claimed his first win this season in Sepang, Malaysia, on Oct 4.
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli came in second, followed by Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK