P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 demands $70 MILLION for Malaysian GP return
Sepang International Circuit director Azhan Shafriman Hanif disclosed that F1 proposed a $70 million budget for the circuit to return to the F1 calendar. The Malaysian Grand Prix had a consistent run at Sepang from 1999 to 2017 but left early due to rising fees and declining ticket sales. Notable winners during this period included Sebastian Vettel, Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, and Max Verstappen.
While discussions about Sepang’s return to F1 have surfaced sporadically, the focus has primarily been on MotoGP. Hanif acknowledged the high hosting costs of F1 return and emphasized avoiding past mistakes. The waiting list for F1 return may feature tracks like the Turkish and Portuguese Grand Prix, with new venues in Saudi Arabia, Madrid, Thailand, and Africa also vying for spots.
With a congested F1 calendar and Malaysia potentially waiting for reintegration, talks suggest a possible motorcycle world championship launch in early 2026. The financial side of F1, including driver salaries, remains a key topic alongside updates from teams like Red Bull and developments in the sport.
