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F1 return puts RM1.3bil Malaysian economic prize in sight
Anwar said the government has opened talks with Formula 1 officials and will weigh national value against costs before any return.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the government is actively discussing the potential return of Formula One racing to Malaysia following the successful hosting of the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit.
Malaysia previously hosted the Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before the event was dropped due to cost factors. Geopolitical tensions in West Asia forced the recent venue change, bringing the race back to the circuit.
"That we are discussing with their President, Stefano," Anwar told media after the race. F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali has opened the door for further discussions regarding the return of the motorsports event.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the matter remains at an early stage, requiring careful evaluation of the sport's strategic importance and significant cost implications for the nation.
Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen claimed his first season win at the event, while organizers offered RM200 tickets to Malaysians and King Sultan Ibrahim attended alongside other regional leaders.