Record-Breaking Sell-Out Crowd Witnesses Historic Formula 1 Grand Prix in Malaysia

A historic collaboration between two nations has culminated in a record-breaking race weekend, as the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) welcomed back Formula 1 by hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

Delivered in an astonishingly short two-month timeframe, the unique event drew the largest crowd in the history of the Malaysian circuit, marking a triumphant and electric return to the region after nearly a decade.

Key Attendance Highlights:

  • Total Weekend Attendance: 261,000 fans
  • Race Day Attendance: 103,000 fans
  • Milestone: The biggest event ever held at the Sepang International Circuit.

Leadership Praise Collaboration and Fan Passion

Following the conclusion of the historic race weekend, leaders from Formula 1, the FIA, the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), and SIC expressed their gratitude and praise for the monumental effort required to pull off the event.

“We’ve experienced an incredible Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia… It is thanks to the vision, determination, and agile thinking of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa that we have enjoyed a true representation of the Bahrain event this weekend, and it has been delivered in just two short months.

We have been so warmly welcomed back to Malaysia and the SIC for the first time in nearly ten years, a time during which the sport has changed and grown so much, as we have seen with this record-breaking, sell-out race. Finally, I must thank the fans – their passion and love for the sport is clear and they have created an electric atmosphere all weekend.”

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1

“To see such an extraordinary response from the fans, particularly given the short timeframe in which this event has been delivered, is a tremendous achievement. It reflects the strength of the collaboration between Bahrain and Malaysia and the shared determination to make this unique Grand Prix a success. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who has worked to make it possible.”

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

“This weekend, we truly brought Bahrain to Malaysia. Over 260,000 fans came to witness the biggest event ever held at Sepang International Circuit… An undertaking of this nature, delivered in such a short space of time, would not be possible without our incredible partnership with SIC. Together with the support of F1, the FIA, Bahrain Motor Federation and the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, this weekend has been a showcase of teamwork, dedication and the coming together of two nations.”

Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit

“The return of Formula 1 to Sepang has once again demonstrated the extraordinary power of the sport to unite people. This has been a truly record-breaking event for us, and we are incredibly grateful and honoured.

Over the past two months, we have worked side by side with the team at BIC in a close, collaborative and united partnership. Together with the dedicated team at SIC and the invaluable support of the Government and our stakeholders, we have delivered a world-class race weekend that will live long in the memories of fans.”

Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz, Chairman of Sepang International Circuit

Looking Ahead

With the historic Malaysian detour a resounding success, Formula 1 looks forward to returning to its traditional home in the Middle East, with organizers confirming they look forward to welcoming the sport back to Bahrain in March next year.

Circuit Racing

LYL Night Magic: Adie Putra Chases Back-to-Back Podiums at Malaysian Cub Prix Round 6

Excerpt: Fresh off his maiden CP125 victory, PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor’s Md Adie Putra Sukarno is ready to embrace the ultimate test of coordination and machinery at the historic first-ever night race in LYL International Karting Circuit.

Md Adie Putra Sukarno is heading into Round 6 of the 2026 PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship with sky-high confidence. The PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor rider recently broke his long-awaited win drought in the highly competitive CP125 class during the previous round, and he is now determined to carry that golden momentum into a historic weekend.

This upcoming leg marks a monumental milestone for the championship: the first-ever night race in Malaysian Cub Prix history. The battle will take place under the floodlights at the highly technical LYL International Karting Circuit.

A Long-Awaited Breakthrough

Looking back at his spectacular victory in Round 5, the Melaka-born rider described the milestone as the ultimate reward after enduring a grueling season filled with setbacks.

“Alhamdulillah, the wait felt incredibly long because every single round threw different obstacles and severe tests my way as I chased the championship title,” Adie shared. “Securing P1 in the CP125 category is an achievement I am deeply grateful for. After the rain cleared, the rainbow finally emerged for our team.”

He emphasized that the victory did more than add a trophy to his cabinet—it lifted a massive psychological weight off his shoulders.

“That success wasn’t just about a trophy; it reignited my fire to prove my capabilities. Now, the psychological burden has transformed into massive motivation to maintain this momentum and stay consistent at the front of the pack.”

The Ultimate Challenge: Racing Under the Floodlights

Round 6 throws a completely new variable at the grid. The CP125 class is notorious for close-quarter, aggressive racing, and taking that action to a narrow, technical karting track at night means physical endurance and sharp visual focus will be tested to their absolute limits.

Race VariablesTechnical Impacts & Challenges
Track LayoutNarrow and highly technical circuit, leaving zero room for unforced errors.
VisibilityRacing under artificial lights requires intense eye-to-mind coordination.
Temperature DropCooler night air increases engine air density but drastically lowers track temperatures, altering tire grip.

Adie is fully aware of the stakes:

“Racing at night for the first time in the history of this championship will undoubtedly make the competition fiercer and more thrilling. For me, the priority is to give maximum commitment to the team and keep a razor-sharp focus ahead without making simple mistakes on this narrow track.”

Tactical Preparations and Engine Tuning

To counter the lack of baseline historical data for night racing at LYL, Adie and his crew have undergone specialized preparation. This included night simulation training sessions to adapt his visual coordination and fine-tune the reactions of his Yamaha Lagenda 115Z machine.

“From a technical standpoint, the cooler track and ambient temperatures will definitely affect tire grip and engine air density,” Adie explained. “The team has done the groundwork early and is fully prepared to make drastic setup adjustments on the fly if the track conditions shift unexpectedly.”

Eyes on the Championship Prize

As the championship race intensifies, Adie remains fiercely focused on the bigger picture—accumulating maximum points.

“Our goal is clear. If the machinery and my physical condition are at their absolute optimum, the team’s target is to step back onto the podium and solidify our overall championship points standings.”

2 Wheels Circuit Racing

Heavy Metal in Sepang: MotoMSF American V-Twin Cup Returns for Round 3!

When you think of the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit (SIC), your mind naturally drifts to screaming inline-four superbikes. What you do not expect to see is a grid of 300kg Harley-Davidsons scraping floorboards at 200 km/h.

The MotoMSF American V-Twin Cup, organized by Prodigy Racecraft, has officially brought viral, American-style King of the Baggers racing straight to Malaysia. These massive touring bikes and cruisers are stripped down to defy physics in pure track warfare. From full-size Open Class Baggers and performance Pro-Street setups to nimble Hooligan Cup Sportsters and modern, liquid-cooled Revolution X engines, this is raw horsepower like you have never seen before.

🏁 THE BATTLE CONTINUES! 🏁

The championship fight is far from over! 🔥 Malaysia’s fastest American V-Twin machines are returning to the tarmac to push their limits for valuable points. Old rivalries will ignite, and brand-new challengers are making their debut to bring fresh competition and unpredictable racing.

Expect close battles, aggressive overtakes, and non-stop action from start to finish. Bring your family, tag your riding buddies, and witness history in the making. Whether you’re a Harley-Davidson owner, a V-Twin enthusiast, or simply a fan of high-octane motorsport, this is the race of the year.

Event Details & Race Schedule

  • 📅 Date: 30 August 2026 (Sunday)
  • 📍 Venue: Sepang South Paddock
  • ⏱️ Qualifying: 11:00 AM
  • 🏁 Race Start: 1:00 PM
  • 🎟️ Entrance Fee: RM30 (Sunday Only)

🏍️ ALL BIKERS ARE WELCOME!

Come and support your favourite riders as they fight for championship glory!

2 Wheels Circuit Racing

MSF Merdeka Race 2026: 111-Lap Endurance Returns to Sepang

The Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF) Merdeka Race returns to the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit for its 9th edition this long weekend, 29–30 August 2026. Featuring over 200 machines and 300 competitors, the event sets the stage for high-speed celebrations ahead of Malaysia’s 69th Merdeka Day.

The Main Event: 111-Lap Endurance

The flagship MSF SuperTurismo Merdeka 111 Endurance car race flags off at 5:30 PM on Sunday, 30 August. Covering 615km over 111 laps, teams must field at least two drivers with a minimum of two 3-minute pitstops. Unregulated driving stints leave strategy wide open as racers battle through the night to finish just before midnight. Defending champions Faidzil Alang and Mohamed Hafez return to face intense local and international grids spanning seven distinct car classes.

Two-Wheel Intensity: Merdeka 33 Endurance

On Sunday morning, motorcycles take center stage. Following the 7-lap American V-Twin Cup for Harley-Davidsons, the grueling MotoMSF Superbikes Merdeka 33 Endurance begins. Running from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM on the South Track, 2-rider teams must complete 33 laps (183km) non-stop. Compulsory pitstops every 8 laps test physical limits under extreme Malaysian heat.

Weekend Race Schedule

  • Saturday Night Sprints (9:00 PM – 11:35 PM): Features two 5-lap Super Unlimited races and an 8-lap Skilldrvn One Make race.
  • Sunday Afternoon Sprints (2:15 PM): Features a 10-lap Skilldrvn One Make race.
  • The Merdeka 75 Cup (3:00 PM): A 75-minute endurance race for grassroots favorites, including the Saga Cup, MyVi Cup, CamPro Cup, and Tuner Production.

Fan Experience & Ticket Info

Organized by Kelab Sukan Motor MSF Malaysia and affiliated with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM), the event offers affordable fan access. Paddock passes cost RM45 for entry from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Children under 12 enter free. Visitors can explore the paddock, visit local food trucks, and shop at motorsport vendor stalls.

Circuit Racing

Redline at Sepang: The 2026 MTCC Finale

The air at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit is thick with the scent of unburned fuel and hot rubber. After three brutal rounds, the 2026 Malaysia Touring Car Championship has come down to this final weekend. Every apex hit and every late-braking maneuver will dictate who leaves as a champion.

Championships on the Line

Leon Khoo Beng Koon leads Touring Production with 105 points, 22 ahead of Jonathan Xie. In TP2, Chiow Teck Song holds a strong lead with 98 points.

But in the other garages, the margins disappear. Just ten points separate the leaders in MTC, and eight points in MT2-V. The real psychological warfare is in MT2-G. Soon Chew Poh and Aun Yue Wei cling to a microscopic two-point lead over Ng Chong Chin and Freddy Ang.

“Several championships remain wide open. We expect every lap, every position, and every decision to count.”

SIC CEO, Azhan Shafriman Hanif

A Symphony of Steel

The MTCC fights are flanked by the Asia Classic Car Challenge, The Super Series, and the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia. Beyond the pit wall, a sea of automotive devotion takes over.

The Honda Mega Meet has brought 10,000 enthusiasts to the circuit. Pristine builds and aftermarket showcases crowd the paddock, culminating in a massive Sunday Lap Parade.

The Final Showdown

In the paddock, 160 students get a behind-the-scenes look via Race2Learn@SIC. Nearby, fans scream during high-speed Taxi Rides or battle in the virtual GT7 Hot Laps Challenge.

For those at home, TV Sarawak broadcasts the action live. But the lucky ones are trackside. The Main Grandstand is packed with fans enjoying free admission, while die-hards pace the RM100 paddock lanes.

The engines are revving. The chequered flag is waiting. Welcome to the finale.

Uncategorized

Flying the Malaysian Flag: AA Motorsports Heads to Sumatera Utara Rally 2026

[KANGAR] – The pride of northern Malaysian rally racing, AA Motorsports, has officially announced their readiness to take on a massive international challenge. Representing Malaysia, the team is set to compete in the prestigious Sumatera Utara Rally 2026, scheduled to take place from August 7 to 9, 2026, in the challenging plantation terrains of PTPN IV Tobasari, Simalungun, North Sumatra, Indonesia.

This international venture marks a giant leap forward for the Perlis-based team. AA Motorsports carries not just their club’s banner, but also the hopes of Malaysian motorsport fans to prove the country’s racing mettle on the regional stage.

About the Event: A World-Class APRC & National Grid

The Sumatera Utara Rally 2026 is far from an ordinary race. It serves as a highly competitive double-header, officially registered as Round 3 of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) and Round 4 of the Indonesia National Rally Championship (Kejurnas).

The Tobasari plantation in Simalungun is famous for its brutal gravel surface, which pushes both driving skills and mechanical endurance to the absolute limit. Conquering this terrain demands extreme high-speed control and seamless synchronization between the driver and co-driver. The event will kick off with a grand Ceremonial Start at Lapangan Haji Adam Malik, Kota Pematangsiantar on August 7, 2026.

From Circuit to Rally: Azrul Azhar Leads the Charge

A key driving force behind this campaign is Azrul Azhar. Just last week, Azrul served as the Team Manager for FNF Motorsports during the high-octane GR86 Cup circuit race.

Shifting gears from the smooth tarmac of circuit racing to the unpredictable dirt of rally, he now steps into the intense rally scene carrying the banner of AA Motorsports—a team proudly powered by FNF Motorsports. This seamless transition from track to gravel showcases the team’s versatile motorsport expertise and deep strategic management depth.

From Perlis to Asia-Pacific: The Team’s Driving Spirit

Following a string of strong domestic performances, AA Motorsports is stepping up to the fierce Asia-Pacific arena. Despite the monumental challenge ahead, the team approaches the grid with a humble yet fiercely determined philosophy:

“We are not the best, but we strive to be the best by His grace.”

This fighting spirit from the “Indera Kayangan” state serves as the ultimate motivation for the drivers and pit crew as they aim to make waves and fly the Malaysian flag high.

Nationwide Support and Prayers for Our Heroes

Waves of support and well-wishes continue to pour in for the team’s overseas expedition. “May every step be blessed, every challenge made easy, and every effort bring victory. Fight with passion, and return with joy,” shared the team’s dedicated support network.

The entire Malaysian motorsport community stands behind AA Motorsports, wishing them the strength to conquer every Special Stage (SS) in Tobasari and bring home a historic result for the nation.

All the best and good luck, AA Motorsports! For Perlis, For Malaysia!

Offroad / Gravel Rally

The 7-Day Race Team: How 33-Year-Old Entrepreneur Ali Imran Shocked the GR86 Grid with FNF Motorsports

SEPANG – The Malaysian motorsport landscape just witnessed one of its most audacious debuts. Breaking the unspoken rule that building a professional race team requires months—if not years—of preparation, 33-year-old entrepreneur Ali Imran has pulled off the impossible. In an astonishing seven-day sprint, he established a fully operational racing outfit, FNF Motorsports, just in time to storm the grid at the recent Malaysia Touring Car Championship (MTCC) Round 3 for the highly competitive GR86 Cup.

It is a masterclass in how entrepreneurial speed, decisive investment, and strategic execution can turn a passionate dream into a high-octane reality overnight.

The Spark: From Street Car to Track Day Realization

The journey began organically through the encouragement of Perlis-based rally driver Azrul Azhar. Recognizing Ali’s raw enthusiasm and potential, Azrul introduced him to Azman, widely known as Longman from the LMC Racing.

Looking to sample the legendary PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Ali hit the asphalt for a casual track day driving his daily-driven, street-legal Toyota GR86. While it was meant to be a simple weekend experience, the adrenaline and dynamics of the circuit lit an immediate competitive fire in the young businessman.

A Massive Leap: Purchasing a Dedicated GR86 Race Machine

Instead of overthinking or waiting for the next season, Ali utilized his business acumen to make an immediate, high-stakes move. Recognizing that his daily driver was not built for wheel-to-wheel professional racing, he invested heavily to purchase a purebred, track-only GR86 race car within that exact week, officially birth-marking the arrival of FNF Motorsports.

With the clock ticking down to the race weekend, Ali rapidly structured a powerhouse management team consisting of industry veterans:

  • Longman (LMC Engineering): Commanded the garage as the team’s Race Engineer, overseeing all technical setup and vehicle dynamics.
  • Azrul Azhar: Stepped up as Team Manager, handling critical logistics and trackside operations.
  • Faidzal Alang: The legendary local racing senior was brought onboard as Ali’s personal driver coach to fast-track his adaptation to a true race-spec vehicle.

Pre-Race Drama and a Forced Driver Swap

The fairy-tale timeline faced a massive threat just two days before the green flag during a crucial testing session. While Ali was acclimating to his newly acquired race car, the vehicle was rear-ended by another car on track, causing sudden structural and mechanical damage.

Faced with intense pressure, the technical prowess of Longman and the FNF Motorsports crew shone brightly as they pulled an all-mighter to successfully rebuild the car. To maximize their competitive edge following the setback, coach Faidzal Alang was officially registered as the second driver, partnering up with Ali for the main event.

A Corporate Blueprint: The Full Commercial Package

What truly set FNF Motorsports apart from a typical grassroots entry was its professional commercial presentation. Treating the team like a modern lifestyle brand, Ali deployed a dedicated media crew to capture high-end content throughout the weekend.

Adding to the top-tier atmosphere, the presence of official FNF Motorsports grid girls on the starting grid instantly elevated the team’s marketability, turning heads among fans and prospective sponsors alike.

Crossing the Line: A Triumph of Execution

Stepping into a true race car for the very first time on a major race weekend, Ali’s objective was grounded in safety: to complete the grueling event and finish safely.

Thanks to his calm composure behind the wheel and the seasoned guidance of Faidzal Alang, the FNF Motorsports GR86 crossed the checkered flag flawlessly. At just 33 years old, Ali Imran did not just debut as a driver; he proved that with an entrepreneurial mindset and the right inner circle, a premium, professional race team can be built from absolute scratch in just one single week.

Circuit Racing Time Attack

Hakim Danish Secures Historic First Moto3 Podium at Mugello

MUGELLO, ITALY | 31 May 2026 – Malaysian rider Hakim Danish Ramli produced the finest result of his career by claiming a sensational third-place finish at the Italian Grand Prix, earning his maiden Moto3 World Championship podium.

The achievement was made even more remarkable considering the challenges he faced throughout the weekend. After suffering a heavy highside crash during practice, the AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSi rider was forced to begin his qualifying campaign in Q1. However, the determined Terengganu-born rider fought his way into Q2, secured second on the grid, and was later promoted to pole position following the withdrawal of Spain’s David Almansa.

When the lights went out at Mugello, Hakim immediately established himself among the front-runners, battling wheel-to-wheel with some of the world’s best young riders throughout the 17-lap contest. Despite dropping as low as eighth at one stage, he refused to give up and mounted an impressive comeback in the closing laps.

A perfectly executed final-lap charge saw Hakim break back into the podium positions, crossing the finish line in third behind Red Bull KTM Ajo duo Brian Uriarte and Alvaro Carpe.

The result not only marks Hakim’s first-ever Moto3 podium but also ends Malaysia’s 10-year wait for a podium finish in the category since Khairul Idham Pawi’s famous victory at the 2016 German Grand Prix.

💬 Reflecting on his historic achievement, Hakim said:

“Today, I finished third and achieved my first podium in the Moto3 World Championship. I’m extremely happy because I gave everything from the start until the finish line. I raced with a never-give-up mentality and stayed focused on fighting for a podium position.”

“The race was very intense, with constant position changes at the front. I knew one small mistake could change everything. Even when I dropped back in the final laps, I stayed calm, looked for overtaking opportunities, and thankfully it worked out in the end.”

“It wasn’t an easy weekend for me after crashing twice on Friday, but we managed to recover and qualify on the front row. To finish on the podium today makes all the hard work worthwhile. I hope this is just the beginning of many more successes to come.”

“Thank you to my family, my team, and everyone who has continued to support and believe in me.”

The 16 points earned at Mugello lift Hakim to 11th in the Moto3 World Championship standings with 43 points after seven rounds, further strengthening his status as one of Malaysia’s most promising talents on the Road to MotoGP.

From a painful crash on Friday to a place on the podium on Sunday, Hakim Danish’s Mugello breakthrough will be remembered as a defining moment in Malaysian motorsport. 🏁🇲🇾

2 Wheels Circuit Racing

Legacy on the Line: A Generational Showdown at Tanamera! 🏁🔥

The dust has settled at Tanamera Rally Park, but the echoes of roaring engines, flying gravel, and fierce family rivalries still linger after an unforgettable 2026 KBS Rally Sprint, organized by X-One Motorsports.

This wasn’t just a battle against the clock — it was a clash of generations, a showcase of raw talent, and a celebration of Malaysian rallying’s future.

The Titans: 30 Years of Rally Mastery

Celebrating three decades of rallying together, legendary duo Saladin Mazlan and Arish Qutb once again proved why they remain benchmarks of the sport. With the Mini Deus dancing across the gravel, their near-telepathic chemistry delivered a blistering Overall P1 finish in 00:23:13.

A masterclass in experience, precision, and outright speed.

The Next Generation is Here

The biggest story of the weekend? Father vs. Son.

Ibrahim Saladin showed rally greatness runs in the blood, pushing his Subaru WRX to the limit to claim Overall P3 while keeping his father firmly in sight throughout the event.

More than a podium finish, it was a statement:
The next generation is ready.

A Co-Driving Dynasty

The family battle extended beyond the driver’s seat.

Co-driver Shazwan Akif, guiding Ibrahim to P3, found himself competing against his own father, Shahrol Zainal — creating one of the most unique and emotional storylines of the rally.

Two generations. One shared passion.

Ladies of the Dust & Rising Stars

Beyond the family rivalries, the event showcased the incredible growth and diversity of Malaysian rallying.

The Ladies of the Dust brought skill, grit, and fearless determination to the gravel, proving motorsport belongs to everyone.

Meanwhile, a wave of Rising Stars and fresh faces lit up Tanamera, pushing grassroots machines to the edge and showing the local rally scene is stronger than ever.

Final Results

🥇 1st Overall — Saladin Mazlan / Arish Qutb (Mini Deus)
🥈 2nd Overall — Faidzal Alang / Zamri Muhamat
🥉 3rd Overall — Ibrahim Saladin / Shazwan Akif (Subaru WRX)

Massive respect to the organizers and X-One Motorsports for another high-octane chapter in Malaysian rallying.

Cars evolve. Technology changes.
Passion remains eternal.

#RallySprint2026 #KBSRallySprint2026 #XOneMotorsports #TanameraRallyPark #RallyLegacy #MotorsportMalaysia #WomenInMotorsport #RisingStars #SaladinMazlan #IbrahimSaladin #AdrenalineImpact #BeritaLitar

Offroad / Gravel Rally

Ducati Dominates as Toprak Gains Ground in MotoGP Debut

Ducati wrapped up the 2026 MotoGP Sepang Test in style, with Álex Márquez fastest on Day 3 at the Sepang International Circuit, leading a commanding final-day showing for the Italian manufacturer.

Álex Márquez topped the timesheets on his Gresini Ducati, ahead of brother Marc Márquez, while Francesco Bagnaia completed a Ducati lockout of the top three as the final official pre-season test in Malaysia came to a close.

While Ducati’s pace set the benchmark, one of the most watched storylines remained Toprak Razgatlıoğlu’s MotoGP adaptation. The World Superbike champion completed another solid day with Prima Pramac Yamaha, focusing on braking technique, electronics and Michelin tyre behaviour as he continues his transition to the premier class. Though outright lap times were not the priority, Toprak’s steady progress added intrigue to Yamaha’s 2026 campaign.

Elsewhere, Pedro Acosta continued to impress for KTM, while Honda logged valuable mileage as it builds towards the new season. After earlier technical setbacks, Yamaha returned to full running on Day 3, prioritising data collection and reliability across both its factory riders and Toprak’s programme.

With the Sepang Test complete, attention now shifts to final preparations before the opening round of the 2026 MotoGP season, with Ducati emerging as the early reference — and all eyes watching how quickly Toprak can shake up the grid.

2 Wheels Circuit Racing