Malaysia faces RM300 million yearly cost to secure permanent Formula 1 slot

Sepang International Circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif says Malaysia would need to spend at least RM300 million each year to obtain a permanent slot on the Formula 1 calendar. The estimate includes hosting‑rights fees of US$70‑80 million and additional local preparation costs required to meet the series’ specifications. Shafriman adds that host nations typically see returns of three times the outlay, potentially delivering up to RM1 billion for Malaysia.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has indicated that the upcoming one‑off race, scheduled for 2‑4 October 2026, will only require about RM16 million to maintain the Sepang circuit, with further spending limited to roughly RM40 million to bring the venue up to F1 standards. The event will be run as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, with most proceeds flowing to Bahrain, the fee‑paying host country. The government’s current focus remains on addressing economic challenges and cost‑of‑living issues rather than large‑scale international sporting events.