Malaysia confident in F1 race staffing

Malaysia has enough experienced personnel to host a Formula 1 race, according to the president of the Motorsports Association of Malaysia. Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir stated the country’s annual accreditation renewal process maintains a steady supply of skilled marshals and technical staff, despite the last F1 event at the Sepang International Circuit taking place in 2017. This system ensures that even during periods without high-profile races, the workforce remains proficient through structured training and certification.

The process is designed to adapt to evolving safety standards and technological advancements in motorsport. Mokhzani told reporters that Malaysia isn’t facing a shortage of qualified officials. “There are many experienced people here,” he said. “We authorize who can serve as a marshal, but if gaps appear, we bring in lecturers or veterans to run refresher courses for circuit staff.”

The system prevents stagnation. Even without regular F1 races, the track remains active, hosting events like MotoGP. “Maintenance is excellent,” he said. “Preparing for F1 won’t be difficult—we have time.”

Bahrain’s race will take place in Malaysia. The upcoming Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at Sepang from October 2-4, an unusual arrangement where Bahrain covers most expenses. Mokhzani called it a valuable chance for Malaysia to demonstrate its capabilities without bearing the full financial burden. “The cost is high for them, but we’re only providing the venue,” he said. “This came suddenly, so we must ensure the circuit is ready. Bahrain has placed trust in us, and we can’t disappoint.”

The association is working with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile to meet all safety and operational standards. Preparations include circuit readiness, participant protocols, and spectator arrangements.

While the logistics are uncommon—outsourcing a race to another country’s infrastructure—it isn’t unprecedented. Smaller circuits sometimes share resources to control costs, though it’s rare for a grand prix to be held entirely under another nation’s name. The setup could serve as a model for future events if successful, but for now, the focus remains on execution.

Mokhzani noted that Sepang’s consistent upkeep, even during F1’s absence, gives the country an edge. “Other events keep the circuit in top condition,” he said. “We’re not rebuilding from nothing.”

The electric motorcycle launch in India earlier this year showed how emerging markets can support high-performance vehicles, though Malaysia’s focus remains on motorsport infrastructure for now.