MALAYSIA has emerged as a shock contender to return to the F1 calendar this year.
F1 bigwigs are weighing up alternatives if the Middle Eastern races cannot go ahead due to the ongoing conflict in the area.
Sepang International Circuit in Sepang, Malaysia Credit: Getty
to getting the green light to rejoin the calendar on October 4, between Baku and Singapore.
But this plan has been derailed due to an unsuccessful ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
It now looks near impossible to hold a race in Bahrain, but F1 chiefs remain keen for a race to be held in that slot.
Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, which last hosted an F1 race in 2017, is reportedly the most likely option given how close it is to Singapore.
Malaysia dropped out of F1’s schedule due to rising hosting costs, declining ticket sales and increased regional competition.
The decision came just as Liberty Media took over the series from CVC Capital and propelled it to new heights.
It is still up in the air over what will happen to the remaining Middle East races in Abu Dhabi and Qatar.
One possibility is said to be Portimao in Portugal, – and last hosted a race in 2021.
It would act as the season finale on December 6, a fortnight on from Las Vegas on November 19 weekend.
If races in Malaysia and Portugal went ahead then the season would end with 22 races out of a possible 24 and it is understood that a decision could be made next week.
The best travel deals for F1
NOTHING comes close to the thrill of a live Grand Prix – and YOU can be there to see it all.
Get the full F1 experience with these unbeatable deals.
🇭🇺 HUNGARY – 23 to 28 July – From £1,099pp
🇳🇱 HOLLAND – 20 to 25 Aug – From £1,089pp
🇮🇹 ITALY – 3 to 8 Sept – From £789pp
🇦🇿 AZERBAIJAN – 22 to 27 Sept – From £1,399pp
🇸🇬 SINGAPORE– 7 to 14 Oct – From £1,999pp
🇺🇸 AUSTIN, USA – 21 to 26 Oct – From £2,799pp
🇶🇦 QATAR – 27 to 29 Nov – From £1,049pp
🇦🇪 ABU DHABI – 4 to 6 Dec – From £2,049pp
See ALL our F1 travel offers
*If you click on a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
