The Malaysian Grand Prix makes a return to the F1 calendar – Following the decision by Liberty Media and the FIA to cancel its contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, several candidates are jostling to take the vacant seat. Among them, is a venue that has already hosted Formula 1.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has taken its toll on the Grand Prix in Russia, which was due to be run for the last time in Sochi before moving to Igora Drive. The contract has now been broken, leaving a vacancy on the calendar for the 2022 F1 season.

Several circuits have expressed interest in hosting F1 on the weekend of the 25th of September, between the Italian Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix. There is talk of Portugal, which has already hosted F1 in 2020 and 2021, but also China, which was not seen on the F1 calendar after its 2019 edition.

But another circuit has shown interest and is actually in pole position to get the Grand Prix to replace Russia. Malaysia’s KL based circuit appears to be the favourite, no doubt aided by the fact main sponsor of Mercedes, the oil giant Petronas, is based in the region.

Malaysia’s return to the calendar

According to local media outlet Tarmac Sports, members of the Sepang circuit management recently held an emergency meeting to discuss the return of F1 to the Malaysian circuit. This could be a perfect compromise, being en route between Italy and Singapore. The article posted by Tarmac Sports confirms the current paddock rumour circulating.

The first F1 Grand Prix was held in 1999, won by Eddie Irvine in his Ferrari. This Grand Prix marked the return of Michael Schumacher after his accident at Silverstone in Great Britain. The last race, won by Max Verstappen in the Red Bull, was held in 2017, despite a deal for one more season.