Latest news with #AzhanShafrimanHanif
The Star
10 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Formula One unlikely to return to Sepang, MotoGP the priority, says SIC
PETALING JAYA: Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has made it clear that their current priority is to make sure Malaysia continues to host MotoGP and has downplayed the possibility of Formula One making a comeback to Sepang. During a recent MotoGP event, SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said Malaysia must look to secure hosting rights for MotoGP and should avoid "making the same mistake" by letting Formula One go. He went on to add that SIC and a number of other stakeholders are keen on having Formula One return to Sepang but highlighted the high organising costs and long waiting list to get on the race calendar. This sparked excitement and debate on whether Malaysia should host Formula One again. SIC, however, released a statement on Wednesday (Aug 20) reaffirming their commitment to MotoGP. Malaysia's current deal with Dorna Sports to host the pinnacle of two-wheeled racing expires in 2026 and is due for renewal. "SIC wishes to clarify recent media reports. Our CEO's recent remarks referred specifically to the renewal of the MotoGP Malaysia contract beyond 2026, and not in relation to the potential return of Formula One. "While Formula One remains a significant part of our history, regaining its hosting rights has proven to be both complex and costly. "The key priority is safeguarding MotoGP, which continues to resonate strongly with Malaysian fans and remains more accessible from both a spectator and organisational standpoint," he said, adding that Malaysia's contract to host MotoGP runs until 2026. "SIC is fully committed to working closely with the government through the Youth and Sports Ministry as well as with Dorna Sports and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the continuation of this world-class and longest running international event in Malaysia." Sepang, which was purpose-built to run Formula One races, hosted Formula One from 1999 until 2017. The decision to drop the race was made in 2017 due to high organising costs.
Sinar Daily
11 hours ago
- Automotive
- Sinar Daily
Is an F1 comeback in Malaysia possible within five years?
KUALA LUMPUR - A Formula 1 (F1) comeback in Malaysia is not off the table, but it will not happen without serious funding, strategic planning and nationwide commitment, said Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif. "Even if we plan this, it could be in the next three to five years. (It's) because of the planning, because of the funding, and because of the coordination that we need to do within ministries and also corporate companies. "But it can happen, I believe it can happen…,' Azhan told Bernama in an interview recently. After joining the Formula 1 calendar in 1999, Malaysia last hosted an F1 Grand Prix in 2017. Since then, the sport has undergone a transformation, both in terms of global audience and commercial focus. With the Netflix-fuelled resurgence of F1 fandom and the explosion of Asian sports tourism, Malaysia is suddenly back in the conversation. But the question remains: is Malaysia ready to make the leap? REGIONAL PRESSURE, GLOBAL COMPETITION F1's expansion in Asia is accelerating, with Thailand set to debut on the calendar in 2028 and Singapore continuing its popular night race. "If that happens, we're going to be stuck between Singapore and Thailand on the calendar,' Azhan Shafriman said, noting the geopolitical and commercial significance of regional positioning. Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif. Photo by Bernama He said SIC stands ready to coordinate a potential comeback, acting as the bridge between government stakeholders and the Formula 1 management. However, two major challenges persist, namely securing a slot in the tightly packed 24-race calendar and obtaining sufficient funding. And that calendar is already full, with more countries waiting in line. "We are still in discussions with them (F1), building trust. They want to come back here, but the questions are: who's going to fund it and where do we fit in the calendar… there's always that element of luck,' he said. This means Malaysia is not only competing with Thailand and Singapore but with new and emerging bidders from around the globe. Demand for a slot on the calendar is high, and Formula 1 is known to be strategic in choosing venues that maximise global exposure, sponsorship and logistical balance. On the other hand, F1's pivot to city-based street circuits such as those in Baku (Azerbaijan), and Miami and Las Vegas (the United States) presents an additional challenge. "The direction that I see now, Formula 1 is moving towards street racing as compared to permanent circuits. But then again, for racing, Sepang makes sense because it is built for Formula 1,' said Azhan. He also noted that the last time Malaysia organised F1 events, the country paid associated fees - Formula One Management - of between US$50 million and US$55 million back in 2017. "Now, through (the) Netflix (series) 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' and the F1 movie, its popularity has increased,' he added. With F1's growing international fan base and commercial profile, Azhan raised a critical point about affordability and fan expectations. "Whether there is a slot which is open for us to come back is one question. But the public also needs to consider that ticket pricing will be expensive if they want Formula 1 to return,' he said, adding that the nature of F1 has always been associated with a premium price tag. "Now or before, ticket prices have always been high for Formula 1. It has always been more expensive than MotoGP (the world's premier motorcycle racing championship). And we've hosted both, we know the difference. A lot of people want Formula 1 to come back. But the real question is, when we sell the tickets, will there be any take-up?' He said the cost difference is unavoidable given the scale of investment required for F1. He also pointed to the changing direction under F1's current owner, Liberty Media, which emphasises a broader event experience. "With Liberty Media injecting more of a lifestyle and entertainment concept into race weekends, the premium for F1 tickets has to be higher compared to MotoGP,' he added. Nevertheless, SIC intends to cater to wider audience groups. "There will be instances where we provide special seating for those who want to attend. Just like we do for MotoGP with the K2 Hillstand and Ticket Rahmah, we'll look at similar options for Formula 1,' he said. Despite rising operational costs and competitive pressures, Azhan stressed that the Sepang circuit remains a purpose-built, world-class racing venue. "Sepang was built for Formula 1, with wide lanes, sweeping corners and overtaking zones. It would be a waste to host it somewhere else when we have this beautiful circuit,' he said. VALUE OF F1: BEYOND THE TRACK Azhan argued that Formula 1 is one of the few global sports products that transcends the race itself, blending engineering, national pride and elite competition. "Formula 1 is easy to understand because it's broadcast week in, week out. The amount of engineering, technology… the stamp that comes around with Formula 1, it cannot compare with any other sports in the world,' he said. Beyond the desire to host an F1 race lies another, more emotionally charged goal: putting a Malaysian driver in Formula 1. "We had Alex Yoong last time. We almost got Jazeman (Jaafar) into the seat,' Azhan said. But the pathway to F1 is notoriously brutal. "There are only like 20 seats. And there are hundreds, if not thousands of young kids who are queuing up for the seat,' he added. Most elite drivers begin karting before they even hit their teenage years. From there, they ascend through national racing series, Formula 3 and Formula 2, with each step more expensive than the last. "If we have this target to put a Malaysian Formula 1 driver, it needs to start from the grassroots. There needs to be a lot of events being held in Malaysia, go-kart and so on,' he said. Now, a new frontier is emerging: virtual racing, with sim-racing and e-sports becoming legitimate feeder platforms for real-world motorsports. "There's a step right now that we're looking into that starts from e-sports, then you go on to real racing. If you've seen the movie 'Gran Turismo', it's based on a true story… that guy started from sim-racing and then he went on to do real racing,' he said. ECONOMIC MULTIPLIER EFFECTS Azhan, meanwhile, believes Malaysia is underestimating the tourism and economic benefits of international events like F1 and MotoGP. Based on SIC's economic impact study, a single international spectator contributes over RM7,700 during a seven- to 10-day stay in Malaysia, a figure that scales up rapidly with attendance. "For 2022 and 2023, the return was about 3.5. Last year, it went up by double… about six, almost six,' he said, referring to the return-on-investment multiplier for MotoGP. "Our neighbours are doing it… Singapore, Thailand, even Indonesia. And if we don't step up, we are going to lose more ground,' he warned. He also said Malaysia needs a strategist to assess all the events that can be brought in. While avoiding direct criticism of policymakers, he urged a more strategic and centralised approach to event acquisition. "I'm not saying that the government is not doing its job. I'm just saying that it could be more strategic,' he said. Azhan called for a bold rethinking of how Malaysia courts global events, particularly in terms of regulations and red tape. "We need someone like that (strategist) in our country to look at all these events that we can pull in… because if we need to be global, there's some leeway that we need to give away. But not affecting the principle of it. "I mean, we have to respect that Malaysia is a Muslim country. But then again, there are certain things that we have to be relaxed about in order for these people to come. We can't be so restrictive. If not, people will be running away to the neighbouring country,' he said, adding that if Formula 1 were to return to Malaysia, SIC could take on the role of coordinating it. He also credited the resilience of his team for keeping the Sepang circuit on track throughout the uncertainties of the pandemic, budget constraints and high expectations. "I've a brilliant team behind me that supported me throughout the years… I owe it to them,' he said. He then added, "Sepang is more than just a circuit. It is a symbol of what Malaysia could be if it dares to get back on the grid.' - BERNAMA
New Straits Times
13 hours ago
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
MotoGP is the priority, not Formula One, says Sepang
KUALA LUMPUR: Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has made it clear that their current priority is to ensure Malaysia continues hosting MotoGP and has downplayed the possibility of Formula One making a comeback to Sepang. During a recent MotoGP event, SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said Malaysia must look to secure hosting rights for MotoGP and should avoid "making the same mistake" it did by letting Formula One go. He went on to add that SIC themselves as well as a number of other stakeholders are keen on having Formula One return to Sepang but highlighted the high organising costs and long waiting list to get on the Formula One calendar. This sparked both public excitement and debate on whether Malaysia should host Formula One again. SIC, however, released a statement today (Aug 20) reaffirming their commitment to MotoGP. Malaysia's current deal with Dorna Sports to host the pinnacle of two-wheeled racing expires next year and is due for renewal. "SIC wishes to clarify recent media reports. Our CEO's recent remarks referred specifically to the renewal of the MotoGP Malaysia contract beyond 2026, and not in relation to the potential return of Formula One," said SIC. "While Formula One remains a significant part of our history, regaining its hosting rights has proven to be both complex and costly. "The key priority is safeguarding MotoGP, which continues to resonate strongly with Malaysian fans and remains more accessible from both a spectator and organisational standpoint. "At present, Malaysia's contract to host MotoGP runs until 2026. "SIC is fully committed to working closely with the Government through the Ministry of Youth and Sports as well as with Dorna Sports and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the continuation of this world-class and longest running international event in Malaysia. "We value the passion shown by the public and stakeholders on this matter and reaffirm our commitment to securing the future of MotoGP in Malaysia for the benefit of fans, partners and the nation." Sepang, which was purpose-built to run Formula One races, hosted Formula One from 1999 until 2017. The decision to drop the race was made in 2017 due to high organising costs, dwindling global interest in the championship and disappointing ticket sales in Malaysia. Formula One has, however, been given a new lease of life since being taken over by current owners Liberty Media in 2017 and now has a strong following again. The Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia (MotoGP Malaysia) has continued to attract strong crowds since first being hosted at Sepang in 1999. The event achieved a record three-day attendance of 184,923 last year.
New Straits Times
2 days ago
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
SIC eyes new revenue streams to reduce need for government funding
KUALA LUMPUR: Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is looking at ways to reduce dependency on government funding to run its development programmes and infrastructure upgrades. SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said they are looking at creating new means of income generation for the FIA grade one track. SIC recently announced a 10-year business plan to fully utilise the track's massive 303-hectare landbank, much of which is currently unutilised. SIC hopes to attract investors to develop hotels, food and beverage outlets as well as motorsports facilities. "When it comes to hosting the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia (MotoGP Malaysia) we are already in the black (event is profitable)," said Shafriman when met recently. "I believe what the government wants is for us to have less dependency on funding from them, especially when it comes to talent development programmes and upgrading our infrastructure. "SIC has largely been doing the same things for the last 26 years (to generate revenue). "So the goal for my team and I now is to look at new ways to increase our revenue." Sepang Circuit, which opened its doors in 1999, has undergone a number of refurbishments and upgrades over the years, which includes a complete resurface of the track in 2016 and partial resurfacing in 2023. Improvements to roofing, sewerage, drainage, toilets, electrical systems and seating have also been done in recent seasons. SIC has over the years depended on government grants to conduct their talent development programmes in both two and four-wheeled motorsports. This ranges from developing riders for the MotoGP World Championships, drivers for touring car and endurance racing world championships to national series such as the Malaysian Touring Car Championships and Malaysian Superbike Championships.
Barnama
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Barnama
Funding, Planning Key To Malaysia's F1 Comeback
A Formula 1 (F1) comeback in Malaysia is not off the table, but it will not happen without serious funding, strategic planning and nationwide commitment, said Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif. 'Even if we plan this, it could be in the next three to five years. (It's) because of the planning, because of the funding, and because of the coordination that we need to do within ministries and also corporate companies. 'But it can happen, I believe it can happen…,' Azhan Shafriman told Bernama in an interview recently. After joining the Formula 1 calendar in 1999, Malaysia last hosted an F1 Grand Prix in 2017. Since then, the sport has undergone a transformation, both in terms of global audience and commercial focus. With the Netflix-fuelled resurgence of F1 fandom and the explosion of Asian sports tourism, Malaysia is suddenly back in the conversation. But the question remains: is Malaysia ready to make the leap? REGIONAL PRESSURE, GLOBAL COMPETITION F1's expansion in Asia is accelerating, with Thailand set to debut on the calendar in 2028 and Singapore continuing its popular night race. 'If that happens, we're going to be stuck between Singapore and Thailand on the calendar,' Azhan Shafriman said, noting the geopolitical and commercial significance of regional positioning. He said SIC stands ready to coordinate a potential comeback, acting as the bridge between government stakeholders and the Formula 1 management. However, two major challenges persist, namely securing a slot in the tightly packed 24-race calendar and obtaining sufficient funding. And that calendar is already full, with more countries waiting in line. 'We are still in discussions with them (F1), building trust. They want to come back here, but the questions are: who's going to fund it and where do we fit in the calendar… there's always that element of luck,' he said. This means Malaysia is not only competing with Thailand and Singapore but with new and emerging bidders from around the globe. Demand for a slot on the calendar is high, and Formula 1 is known to be strategic in choosing venues that maximise global exposure, sponsorship and logistical balance. On the other hand, F1's pivot to city-based street circuits such as those in Baku (Azerbaijan), and Miami and Las Vegas (the United States) presents an additional challenge. 'The direction that I see now, Formula 1 is moving towards street racing as compared to permanent circuits. But then again, for racing, Sepang makes sense because it is built for Formula 1,' said Azhan Shafriman. He also noted that the last time Malaysia organised F1 events, the country paid associated fees – Formula One Management – of between US$50 million and US$55 million back in 2017. 'Now, through (the) Netflix (series) 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' and the F1 movie, its popularity has increased,' he added. With F1's growing international fan base and commercial profile, Azhan Shafriman raised a critical point about affordability and fan expectations. 'Whether there is a slot which is open for us to come back is one question. But the public also needs to consider that ticket pricing will be expensive if they want Formula 1 to return,' he said, adding that the nature of F1 has always been associated with a premium price tag. 'Now or before, ticket prices have always been high for Formula 1. It has always been more expensive than MotoGP (the world's premier motorcycle racing championship). And we've hosted both, we know the difference. A lot of people want Formula 1 to come back. But the real question is, when we sell the tickets, will there be any take-up?' According to him, the cost difference is unavoidable given the scale of investment required for F1. He also pointed to the changing direction under F1's current owner, Liberty Media, which emphasises a broader event experience. 'With Liberty Media injecting more of a lifestyle and entertainment concept into race weekends, the premium for F1 tickets has to be higher compared to MotoGP,' he added. Nevertheless, SIC intends to cater to wider audience groups. 'There will be instances where we provide special seating for those who want to attend. Just like we do for MotoGP with the K2 Hillstand and Ticket Rahmah, we'll look at similar options for Formula 1,' he said. Despite rising operational costs and competitive pressures, Azhan Shafriman stressed that the Sepang circuit remains a purpose-built, world-class racing venue. 'Sepang was built for Formula 1, with wide lanes, sweeping corners and overtaking zones. It would be a waste to host it somewhere else when we have this beautiful circuit,' he said. VALUE OF F1: BEYOND THE TRACK Azhan Shafriman argued that Formula 1 is one of the few global sports products that transcends the race itself, blending engineering, national pride and elite competition. 'Formula 1 is easy to understand because it's broadcast week in, week out. The amount of engineering, technology… the stamp that comes around with Formula 1, it cannot compare with any other sports in the world,' he said. Beyond the desire to host an F1 race lies another, more emotionally charged goal: putting a Malaysian driver in Formula 1. 'We had Alex Yoong last time. We almost got Jazeman (Jaafar) into the seat,' Azhan Shafriman said. But the pathway to F1 is notoriously brutal. 'There are only like 20 seats. And there are hundreds, if not thousands of young kids who are queuing up for the seat,' he added. Most elite drivers begin karting before they even hit their teenage years. From there, they ascend through national racing series, Formula 3 and Formula 2, with each step more expensive than the last. 'If we have this target to put a Malaysian Formula 1 driver, it needs to start from the grassroots. There needs to be a lot of events being held in Malaysia, go-kart and so on,' he said. Now, a new frontier is emerging: virtual racing, with sim-racing and e-sports becoming legitimate feeder platforms for real-world motorsports. 'There's a step right now that we're looking into that starts from e-sports, then you go on to real racing. If you've seen the movie 'Gran Turismo', it's based on a true story… that guy started from sim-racing and then he went on to do real racing,' he said. ECONOMIC MULTIPLIER EFFECTS Azhan Shafriman, meanwhile, believes Malaysia is underestimating the tourism and economic benefits of international events like F1 and MotoGP. Based on SIC's economic impact study, a single international spectator contributes over RM7,700 during a seven- to 10-day stay in Malaysia, a figure that scales up rapidly with attendance. 'For 2022 and 2023, the return was about 3.5. Last year, it went up by double… about six, almost six,' he said, referring to the return-on-investment multiplier for MotoGP. 'Our neighbours are doing it… Singapore, Thailand, even Indonesia. And if we don't step up, we are going to lose more ground,' he warned. He also said Malaysia needs a strategist to assess all the events that can be brought in. While avoiding direct criticism of policymakers, he urged a more strategic and centralised approach to event acquisition. 'I'm not saying that the government is not doing its job. I'm just saying that it could be more strategic,' he said. Azhan Shafriman called for a bold rethinking of how Malaysia courts global events, particularly in terms of regulations and red tape. 'We need someone like that (strategist) in our country to look at all these events that we can pull in… because if we need to be global, there's some leeway that we need to give away. But not affecting the principle of it. 'I mean, we have to respect that Malaysia is a Muslim country. But then again, there are certain things that we have to be relaxed about in order for these people to come. We can't be so restrictive. If not, people will be running away to the neighbouring country,' he said, adding that if Formula 1 were to return to Malaysia, SIC could take on the role of coordinating it. He also credited the resilience of his team for keeping the Sepang circuit on track throughout the uncertainties of the pandemic, budget constraints and high expectations. 'I've a brilliant team behind me that supported me throughout the years… I owe it to them,' he said. He then added, 'Sepang is more than just a circuit. It is a symbol of what Malaysia could be if it dares to get back on the grid.' -- BERNAMA
