Issues came up over the hefty fee race organisers have to pay to F1 for hosting the race.
Representational Image (Photo: AFP)
The 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix will be the final race the country holds, ending an association of 19 years between the South Asian nation and the world’s premier motorsport, according to a statement made on www.f1.com.
The decision was taken jointly by Formula 1 and Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Malaysia joined the F1 calendar in 1999, and both Formula 1 and SIC say they are determined to make this year’s event in October a fitting finale for the ground-breaking circuit.
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“It’s always sad to say goodbye to a member of the Formula 1 family,” commented Sean Bratches, Managing Director, Commercial Operations, Formula 1. “Over nearly two decades, the Malaysian Formula 1 fans have proven themselves to be some of the sport’s most passionate supporters.
“We will have 21 exciting events to look forward to in the 2018 calendar, with the additions of the French and German races. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Sepang International Circuit for their hospitality and professionalism over the years, and their ongoing commitment to motorsport.”
During its time on the Formula 1 calendar, not only has Malaysia built a loyal F1 fan base, it has also become a major force in motor racing and successfully established itself as a global tourist destination.
Issues were said to have come up over the hefty fee race organisers have to pay to F1 for hosting the race, which raises their costs a little too much and as a result, it is difficult to turn over a substantial profit.
Monaco (Monte Carlo) is the only venue in F1 which does not pay a fee to F1 for hosting a race.
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