Malaysia’s one-off F1 race generates $232mn, fuelling comeback hopes
Malaysia’s return to Formula 1 generated nearly RM950mn ($232mn) in economic activity, strengthening the country’s case for bringing the championship back to Sepang permanently.
The October 2–4 Bahrain Grand Prix, relocated to Malaysia because of the conflict in the Middle East, attracted approximately 261,000 spectators over three days, including 103,000 on race day.
Absolute cinema 🍿 #F1 #BahrainGP https://t.co/j0FaDmQIeM
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 6, 2026
Malaysian Youth and Sports Minister Taufiq Johari disclosed the figures in a written parliamentary reply on October 13.
More than 97,000 tickets were sold, while over 50,000 international tourists and 5,000 foreign workers travelled to Malaysia for the event. The race also attracted a reported global television audience of 827mn.
Johari said overseas visitors boosted tourism, hospitality, aviation and local businesses. However, the $232mn figure represents estimated economic activity rather than government revenue or profit.
Can Malaysia afford a permanent F1 return?
🌅 | 𝗦𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗖𝗜𝗥𝗖𝗨𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗛𝗔𝗩𝗘 𝗜𝗧. The cars, the packed grandstand, that unmistakable Sepang roof — all under a Malaysian sunset. 😍🇲🇾 What a backdrop for Formula 1’s return. #F1 #Sepang #BahrainGP https://t.co/t8CfsrYbAb
— THE F1 HOOK (@TheF1Hook) October 7, 2026
Despite the event’s economic impact, Malaysia has not decided whether hosting Formula 1 regularly would be financially worthwhile.
Bahrain reportedly covered the substantial hosting fees for the relocated race, while Malaysia spent between RM10mn and RM16mn on preparations.
A permanent return would be considerably more expensive. Sepang International Circuit officials previously estimated annual hosting costs at approximately RM300mn ($73mn).
The circuit has appointed a consulting firm to assess the race’s economic benefits against its costs. The findings will help the government decide whether to pursue a long-term agreement.
Malaysia provided the circuit. Bahrain provided the Grand Prix. Indonesia provided the haze in the background.
— Lee Seng Foo🇲🇾李成富 (@sengfoo88) October 6, 2026
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed on October 4 that Malaysia had begun discussions with Formula 1 management about returning to the championship calendar.
However, he acknowledged that securing a place would take time because of existing contracts and the crowded race schedule.
The FIA has indicated that Malaysia would need a business plan covering at least five years of commercial, promotional and logistical commitments.
Sepang previously hosted Formula 1 from 1999 until 2017, when rising costs and declining financial returns prompted its withdrawal.
The October race demonstrated renewed interest in the circuit but also exposed logistical problems. Spectators complained about overcrowded shuttle buses and lengthy queues, with some walking several kilometres along nearby roads after the event.
