P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Malaysian GP is one of MotoGP’s more popular rounds
The Malaysian sports minister is urging the Sepang International Circuit to demonstrate the value of the annual MotoGP event to justify continued funding. MotoGP has a long history in Malaysia, dating back to 1991 when it first raced at Shah Alam before moving to Johor and finally, Sepang in 1999. Despite interruptions in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, MotoGP is contracted at Sepang until 2026, with discussions underway for a possible extension. Sports minister Hannah Yeoh emphasizes the importance of proving the event’s long-term benefits for the local economy and job market. She highlights the event’s impact on tourism, the economy, job creation, and skills transfer to Malaysians. Last year’s Malaysian Grand Prix had a strong attendance of 184,923 spectators, making it one of the best-attended events of the 2024 season. Sepang has been successful in attracting large crowds, with plans for the 2025 event to take place from 24th to 26th October as one of the closing rounds of the season.
