FORMULA One isn’t just a race—it’s the combination of speed, skill, and heart-pounding drama, where split-second choices keep their fans on the edge of their seats worldwide.
As one of the most recognised sports in the world, its prestige and influence on media and popular culture are impossible to ignore.
When it comes to Formula 1 (F1) in Southeast Asia, Singapore glitzy night races may come to mind first for most.
But was Malaysia actually the first Southeast Asian country to host an F1 race? Or was it another nation’s decision that took the checkered flag in making history?
Verdict:
TRUE
Malaysia was indeed the first Southeast Asian country to host a F1 race.
Although Japan hosted the first F1 race in Asia in 1976, Malaysia's inclusion in the Formula 1 calendar marked its rise in motorsport, long before Singapore’s participation in 2008.
The Malaysian Grand Prix began in 1999 at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), and has since become an annual highlight in the region, establishing itself alongside North and South America, Britain, continental Europe, Japan, and Australia.
The track was brought to life by Malaysia’s fourth prime minister at the time, Mahathir Mohamad, a passionate supporter of motorsports.
Celebrated as the "crown jewel of Malaysian motorsports," it earned global recognition as one of the finest F1 facilities and cost RM286mil to construct.
Designed by Hermann Tilke, SIC became famous for its challenging layout, high-speed corners, and long straights, often paired with unpredictable weather.
A standout was the 2002 race, where heavy rain created treacherous track conditions, testing drivers’ skills and thrilling fans.
Ferrari dominated in the early years, with teams like Red Bull Racing, Renault, McLaren-Mercedes, and Mercedes also finding success.
Between 1999 and 2017, Ferrari claimed seven victories, with notable winners including Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton.
The final race in 2017 saw Max Verstappen take victory, marking an emotional farewell to the circuit. Declining attendance and financial challenges led to Sepang’s removal from the Formula 1 calendar.
Despite its absence from the Formula One calendar, Sepang remains a symbol of Malaysia's motorsport legacy, and numerous drivers, including Romain Grosjean, calling it their favourite circuit.
References:
1. https://www.fia.com/news/f4-
2. https://www.formula1.com/en/
3. https://www.sepangcircuit.com/
4. https://time.com/archive/
5. https://www.theedgesingapore.
6. https://www.
