Petronas denies rumors of Malaysian Grand Prix return despite discussions

The Malaysian Grand Prix has garnered considerable attention in recent Formula 1 news, with reports indicating a potential return to the F1 calendar in 2026. It has been suggested that Petronas, the state-owned oil company and title sponsor of Mercedes, is interested in resurrecting the race, generating enthusiasm among fans. However, Petronas promptly refuted these claims in a recent statement.

Previously hosted at the Sepang International Circuit from 1999 to 2017, the Malaysian Grand Prix was discontinued due to declining ticket sales and the mounting costs associated with hosting the grand prix. Notwithstanding this, the race was renowned for memorable moments, such as Renault’s dominance in 2006 and unexpected rainstorms that resulted in race stoppages.

In the past, Malaysia’s sports minister, Hannah Yeoh, had expressed skepticism regarding the viability of hosting an F1 race in the country due to the substantial costs involved. Nevertheless, sources within Petronas have divulged details about a purported plan to revive the race, coinciding with the oil company securing naming rights to the Sepang International Circuit for the next three years.

As competition intensifies to secure spots on the F1 calendar, other countries, like Spain, have secured multiple race slots for forthcoming seasons. Furthermore, F1 is exploring new race locations, with recent trademarking of a potential event in Chicago. However, plans for a South African race fell through, possibly creating an opportunity for the return of the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Despite the speculation surrounding the potential revival of the Malaysian Grand Prix, Petronas has emphatically refuted these claims in a recent statement. They have clarified that there have been no discussions about reintroducing the sport to the Petronas Sepang International Circuit, effectively dispelling the rumors for the time being.

With the current Concorde Agreement in F1 capping the number of races at 24, the prospect of the Grand Prix’s return remains uncertain, particularly with potential revisions to the agreement following its expiration in 2025. It will be captivating to observe how the situation unfolds in the ensuing years and whether the Malaysian Grand Prix will indeed finally make a comeback to the F1 calendar.