Speculation of a potential Formula One return to Malaysia in 2026 based on a Reuters report suggesting Petronas’ interest in reviving the race has been denied.
Recent developments in Malaysian motorsports emerged after Petronas, the nation’s top Fortune 500 company, secured naming rights for the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for three years from October of the previous year.
The circuit, known for hosting MotoGP and other motorsport events, has been at the centre of rumours about Formula One’s return to Malaysia. These speculations were initially sparked by a social media post from SIC’s account in 2022 but were quickly dismissed.
Last year, Mokhzani Mahathir, president of the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, mentioned the potential for Malaysia to host F1 races again within the next few years if sponsors were found, hinting at an ongoing interest in bringing F1 back to the country.
The Sepang International Circuit, the Malaysian prime minister’s office, and F1’s office did not respond to requests for comments.
This news came to light during a company townhall led by Petronas CEO Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz, as stated by three sources who chose to remain anonymous.
Petronas has officially stated that there have been no talks regarding the reintroduction of the Formula One Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, contradicting earlier speculations. This clarification was issued through a formal statement from the oil company.
The statement referring to the speculation read: “We would like to confirm that there have been no discussions on bringing back the sport to the Petronas Sepang International Circuit.”
