With the 2022 Malaysian Grand Prix, with new sponsor Petronas, scheduled for October this year, preparations are underway to welcome the return of international sporting events at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). As ISC is the home of Malaysian motorsport, this led to the social media hashtag “welcome home” for this year’s MotoGP, explained SIC CEO Aznan Shafriman Hanif.
“Two years without any major motorsport events at Speang, especially MotoGP, has been difficult for us and for everyone. But with God’s grace, we made it through and we are all looking forward to MotoGP’s return to Sepang,” said Shafriman. “The contract extension with Dorna MotoGP and Petronas to join as the new title sponsor, taking over from Shell, is very good news,” he continued.
Shafriman also explained the fare for Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, to give the event the full title, rose slightly but said it was inevitable due to the government imposing an entertainment tax. “There are also costs associated with adopting pandemic standard operating procedures that are unavoidable, more so in the case of a major event like MotoGP,” said Shafriman.
“However, with the return of MotoGP, we look forward to hosting a more inclusive, family-oriented event at MotoGP,” he said. “We have a lot of ideas and a lot of things we want to do, awaiting approval from the government, but we will display specific items like Malaysian food and culture, organize some events,” said Shafriman. and family activities.
“It should be noted that SIC fares, despite Buriram in Thailand and the new Mandalika Circuit in Indonesia, are still on par in the region. Add to that the better infrastructure we have at SIC, including upgraded restroom facilities, etc., allowing Sepang to continue to be the premier destination for motorsport in ASEAN. ,” said Shafriman.
As for the Petronas sponsorship that heralds a possible return to Formula 1 for SIC, Shafriman said his prediction is as good as anyone at this point. “That’s something you have to ask Petronas,” Shafriman said with a smile, “they have plans of their own.”
