F1 Returns to Sepang: Bahrain Grand Prix to Boost Tourism and Economy, Says Zahid
SEPANG: The Formula One (F1) Bahrain Grand Prix, which will take place at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this October, is expected to bring long-term economic benefits to Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said hosting this prestigious race will strengthen Malaysia’s position as a world-class motorsport hub.
He mentioned that it is a great honor for Malaysia to receive Bahrain’s trust to host the race at SIC.
”Although Malaysia has not hosted F1 since 2017, this opportunity allows Malaysians to watch the race live at SIC again after almost ten years of only watching it on TV.”
”As someone who loves motorsports, F1, and MotoGP, I welcome the government’s decision to host F1 from October 2 to 4 this year.”
”We thank Bahrain for trusting Malaysia to organize this race,” he said after launching an event today.
He added that while hosting the race costs a lot of money, Bahrain is covering the expenses. This allows Malaysia to enjoy economic and tourism benefits without facing a heavy financial burden.
Ahmad Zahid noted that the economic impact goes beyond immediate benefits like more tourist arrivals. It also brings medium- and long-term gains through global media coverage.
”F1 reaches billions of viewers worldwide. This will give long-term benefits to our country in terms of international promotion and coverage,” he said.
He also described SIC as a world-class track with complete facilities, on par with top international venues.
He explained that SIC’s facilities should be fully used, especially since the track has been known mostly for hosting MotoGP in recent years.
”This is a big honor for us because SIC has world-class facilities, and it would be a waste not to use them fully,” he said.
At the same time, Ahmad Zahid hopes Malaysia can host F1 races more regularly in the future through partnerships between the government and private companies.
He said the government could consider allocating funds and getting corporate sponsorships to keep hosting the prestigious event in the coming years.