SEPANG, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) faces several constraints in becoming an alternative venue for the Qatar Grand Prix (GP) should it be asked to replace the race on this season's MotoGP calendar.
SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said any decision to host the race, scheduled to take place at the Lusail International Circuit from Nov 6 to 8, would need to take into account several factors, including costs, circuit availability, approval from the Malaysian government and the agreement of the race rights holder.
He said the matter remained speculative at this stage, and SIC had neither received any request nor held any formal discussions with MotoGP organisers or Dorna Sports, now known as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP, regarding the possibility of replacing the race.
“We first need to look at the costs involved. If we are to host another race, which party will bear the expenses? Secondly, we also need to look at the availability in the calendar because after the Malaysian MotoGP 2026 concludes, the circuit will be busy with bookings that have already been scheduled.
“Most importantly, any decision would require the approval and agreement of the Malaysian government. Therefore, the final decision does not rest with SIC alone, but must be mutually agreed upon by the country and the race rights holder,” he said.
Azhan Shafriman was speaking at a press conference on traffic control and safety arrangements ahead of the Malaysian MotoGP 2026, scheduled to take place at SIC from Friday to Sunday, here today.
He said the Qatar GP dates next week also clash with Round Five of China GT 2026, which will be held at SIC, making last-minute changes difficult.
He added that logistical considerations posed another constraint, as cargo carrying equipment for the China GT event was already en route to Sepang.
MotoGP riders were earlier reported to have held a meeting to discuss the uncertainty in the Middle East ahead of next week's Qatar GP.
The Qatar GP, originally scheduled for April 10 to 12, was postponed to Nov 6 to 8 following the geopolitical situation in West Asia.
-- BERNAMA