Malaysia Extends MotoGP Contract To 2031

SEPANG, July 1 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has extended its contract to host the Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) for another five years until 2031, Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said.

He said the new contract, which takes effect from next year, has received Cabinet approval, reflecting the government's commitment to ensuring Malaysia remains one of the world's leading motorsport hubs.

The current contract for the Malaysian MotoGP covers the period from 2024 until the end of this year.

"This renewal is not merely an extension of an international sporting event, but a strategic government decision to ensure Malaysia remains relevant and competitive as a global motorsport hub," he told reporters at the announcement ceremony at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) today.

Mohammed Taufiq said the contract extension forms part of the government's efforts to strengthen the country's motorsport ecosystem while generating economic opportunities through the hosting of world-class sporting events.

"Malaysia MotoGP is a strategic national asset and investment that benefits the tourism, hospitality, transportation and small and medium enterprise (SME) sectors.

"An economic impact study showed that the 2024 edition generated an overall economic impact of about RM694 million, created more than 4,400 job opportunities and delivered a return on investment of around 6.3 times for the country," he said.

He said, besides boosting the tourism sector, the Malaysia MotoGP also contributes to the development of local talent, technical expertise and broader participation in the motorsport industry.

"Through the Malaysian Motorsport Development (MDEV) programme, a more structured talent development pathway has produced riders such as Hakim Danish and Qabil Irfan, who are making their mark on the international stage," he said.

Malaysia first hosted the MotoGP in 1991 before the race moved to SIC in 1999.

Mohammed Taufiq said the extended MotoGP hosting contract should be fully leveraged as a catalyst for the development of the country's motorsport sector, particularly in producing more local riders capable of competing on the international stage.

"We are providing various facilities at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to ensure our riders receive adequate training. We will monitor their preparations and ensure they maintain consistency throughout the five-year period. Their performances cannot fluctuate but must continue to improve over time.

"We also hope the MotoGP will not only generate an impact during the few days of the race weekend, but will serve as a long-term investment capable of producing more riders through the various development programmes implemented throughout the hosting period," he said.

-- BERNAMA