Axed F1 circuit eager to return: 'It was a mistake to stop'

In 2017, Max Verstappen claimed victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix, the last Formula 1 race held at the Sepang International Circuit to date. Nearly eight years have passed since then, and while the circuit has expressed a strong desire to return to the F1 calendar, CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif admits the path back has been far from straightforward.

Verstappen’s win in Malaysia marked only the second of his career, as he crossed the line almost thirteen seconds ahead of second-place Lewis Hamilton.

Max Verstappen wins Malaysian GP in 2017 - Red Bull Contentpool

Regret at Sepang International Circuit about leaving F1 calendar

However, MotoGP is still raced on the circuit. According to Shafriman, it's crucial that the motorbike race is preserved: "We do not want to repeat the mistakes of the past. We let Formula One go and now it is very hard to get it back. I hope we don't make the same mistake with MotoGP," said Shafriman recently.

Will the Malaysian GP return to the Formula 1 calendar?

The circuit wants to return to the Formula 1 calendar, but it's not easy yet. Shafriman said, "There is a waiting list to get back in (for Formula One), and of course, the costs are very expensive. We were quoted US$70 million race fees (by owners Liberty Media).

"That is for each event (edition of Malaysian GP). That does not include our setup costs, which are in the region of RM10 to RM20 million for each event."

"In total, it would cost us more than RM300 million to bring back the race (annually). A lot of people (countries) are queuing, so it won't be easy. But if we are really serious about it, then maybe we can start the conversation," concluded Shafriman.