Malaysia has begun discussions over the possibility of bringing Formula 1 back to Sepang in the coming years, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirming that talks have already taken place with Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali. The development follows the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held at Sepang, which marked Formula 1’s return to Malaysia after a nine-year absence.
Anwar Ibrahim explained after the race that the government is exploring whether the country could once again host Formula 1 on a regular basis, although he stressed that discussions remain at a very early stage.
Malaysia opens discussions over Formula 1 return to Sepang
The Malaysian Prime Minister said he had been in contact with Stefano Domenicali over the possibility of Formula 1 returning to the country.
“We are discussing it with their president. But it is too early. He has opened the door to dialogue and we have to discuss,” Anwar Ibrahim said.
He added that any final decision would require careful evaluation, taking into account both the importance of hosting Formula 1 for Malaysia and the financial implications involved.
The Bahrain Grand Prix had been moved to Sepang in October following an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East had prevented the race from taking place in its original April slot, allowing the event to remain on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar while also bringing the championship back to Malaysia for the first time since 2017.
Rain, delays and a packed Sepang atmosphere
The returning Formula 1 event produced a dramatic afternoon at Sepang. Heavy rain delayed the start by more than an hour and a half, with the medical car reporting significant standing water around the circuit.
Technical problems then left several cars moving slowly during formation laps behind the Safety Car. The start had originally been scheduled for 15:00, but racing was not authorised until around 16:35, after the FIA had clarified the grid order.
Asked whether he was more accustomed to the weather than international visitors, Anwar Ibrahim, soaked but clearly enthusiastic, replied: “I’m wet, drenched, but excited. You see, the whole of Malaysia is celebrating.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that the enthusiasm was shared by Malaysians attending the event, underlining the level of interest generated by Formula 1’s return to Sepang.
Malaysian royalty attends Formula 1’s Sepang return
Several prominent figures were present for the event, including Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and his son, Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah.
On track, Max Verstappen won for Red Bull after starting from pole position. The Dutch driver, who had also won the previous Formula 1 Grand Prix held in Malaysia in 2017, claimed his first victory of the season after a chaotic race featuring mixed wet and dry conditions, two Safety Car periods and a late retirement for George Russell caused by power unit trouble.
Max Verstappen finished just over two seconds ahead of Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who strengthened his championship lead. Lewis Hamilton completed the podium for Ferrari after recovering from a difficult start that had dropped him towards the rear of the field, continuing an eventful Ferrari campaign for Lewis Hamilton.
The spectacle, attendance and enthusiasm surrounding the race have now provided Malaysia with fresh momentum as discussions begin over whether Formula 1 could become a regular fixture at Sepang once again.
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