Malaysia explores rotating F1 hosting with regional partners
Youth and Sports Minister Taufiq Johari said Malaysia is studying a joint, periodic Formula 1 race with other countries after talks with F1 chief Stefano Domenicali.
Malaysia is considering a collaborative approach to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix intermittently with other nations, following preliminary talks between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. Youth and Sports Minister Taufiq Johari told parliament that a multi-ministerial committee, chaired by the Secretary-General, is evaluating the financial outlay and potential economic gains, aiming to finish its assessment before November so the Cabinet can decide on future hosting.
The concept would see the event staged once every several years alongside partner countries, reducing the burden of an annual race. Recent experience from the Bahrain Grand Prix, held in Sepang after being relocated, showed strong attendance and generated nearly RM950 million in economic activity, but officials stress that any F1 plans must not compromise funding for other sports and athlete development.
Why it matters
The decision could shape Malaysia's tourism revenue and sports funding while influencing regional cooperation on major events.
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