HISTORY OF THE SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) was conceived in the early 1990s as part of Malaysia’s effort to raise its profile in international motorsports. The project was championed by then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who saw the circuit as a way to boost Malaysia’s tourism and sporting prestige. Construction began in 1997 under the design of German architect Hermann Tilke, who would go on to create several other major Formula 1 circuits. Sepang was completed in 1998, featuring cutting-edge facilities and a track design that combined long straights with challenging corners, making it one of the most modern circuits in the world at the time.

The circuit was officially opened on March 7, 1999, by Prime Minister Mahathir. Shortly after its opening, Sepang hosted its first major event, the 1999 Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, as part of the Road Racing World Championship season. This marked Malaysia’s debut on the global motorsports stage. The circuit became known for its technical challenges, particularly in the tropical climate, where the combination of high temperatures and unpredictable rain tested riders and teams.

In addition to MotoGP, Sepang quickly became a major venue for Formula 1, hosting its first Formula 1 race later in 1999. Over the years, the Malaysian Grand Prix became a key fixture on the F1 calendar, known for its unique combination of high-speed straights and fast corners. The tropical heat added an extra layer of difficulty, often affecting tire performance and driver endurance, making it a favourite for fans and drivers alike.

While Formula 1 was the headline event at Sepang for many years, the circuit became a global hub for a variety of motorsports. MotoGP, in particular, grew in importance at the circuit, with Sepang regularly hosting pre-season testing sessions for teams due to the demanding conditions and technical nature of the track. Over the years, Sepang also hosted events from other series, including the Super GT, the Asian Le Mans Series and the Malaysian Super Series.

Sepang remained a fixture on the Formula 1 calendar until 2017 when the Malaysian Grand Prix was dropped due to declining attendance and high costs. However, MotoGP has continued to thrive at the venue, with the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix drawing huge crowds and remaining one of the most popular events on the MotoGP calendar.

Beyond racing, the Sepang International Circuit has become a symbol of Malaysia’s development in the world of international sports. It has hosted numerous other events, including concerts, and is frequently used for corporate events and driver training programs. The circuit’s proximity to Kuala Lumpur International Airport has also made it a convenient destination for international visitors.

Recent winners of the MotoGP Malaysian Grand Prix

2017: Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati)
2018: Marc Márquez (Honda)
2019: Maverick Viñales (Yamaha)
2020: Grand Prix cancelled due to the COVID-19
2021: Grand Prix cancelled due to the COVID-19
2022: Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati)​
2023: Enea Bastianini (Ducati)

Most wins (MotoGP category, riders)

• Valentino Rossi 5 wins
• Mick Doohan 5 wins
• Dani Pedrosa 3 wins

Most wins (MotoGP category, manufacturers)

• Ducati 7 wins
• Yamaha 6 wins
• Honda 6 wins