While in the Monza the last disastrous weekend at an organizational level is still being discussed, and on whether or not you deserve to stay on the calendar, there are other stages that push to enter or in this particular case, to return, to the Circus. F1 especially in the last two years has attracted more and more spectators, increasing costs but in the face of a more attractive investment if you look at the turnouts compared to those of a few years ago. The fights Verstappen - Hamilton and this season's between Leclerc and Max, with the resurgence of Ferrari they have rekindled the passion and interest of circuit organizers all over the world.
A return of Malaysia
Malaysia was part of the F1 calendar in the editions from 1999 to 2017, only to give up in 2018 following numerous financial difficulties, linked to the increase in costs to host the event. But also to the particular climatic conditions that made it difficult to include in the calendar. The Sepang circuit hosted and gave us moments that will remain forever in the F1 history books, such as the Schumacher – Montoya duel, or the Hamilton – Massa one; Kimi's first victory as well as his unforgettable ice cream stop in 2009; Vettel's first victory in Ferrari in 2015, after years of fasting. Memories that are dusted off from time to time, from the day of the breakup between the Sepang track and F1, waiting to be able to create others.
It still takes time
From the speculations born after the announcement of Russia's farewell due to the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which spoke of a return of Malaysia to replace Sochi, months have now passed. Although it was never mentioned again, the thrust of F1, which intends to make the sporting event a 360° entertainment rather than simply a competitive one, has whetted the appetite of the Malaysian government.
On the intention to enter or not in the calendar of the highest category, the managing director of Sepang, Azhan Shafriman Hanif, has already given an approximate deadline, in order to organize the return as best as possible:“Right now the answer is no, not for now – he said in an interview withAFP - perhaps in two or three years, when the economy has stabilised. We need to look into rebranding and how to monetize the platform. We need to talk about technology transfer, talent development and environmental sustainability. If Formula One were to return to Malaysia, it must also focus on other purposes, not just the race."
Source: FormulaPassion
