Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 1, 2026: MotoGP has officially confirmed a new five-year contract that will see the Malaysian Grand Prix remain at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit from 2027 through 2031, extending one of the championship’s longest-running and most popular events in Asia.

The new agreement, recently approved by the Government of Malaysia, reinforces the country’s position as one of MotoGP’s key global markets while ensuring the continuation of a race that has been part of the premier-class calendar since 1991. The purpose-built Sepang circuit has hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix since 1999, becoming one of the sport’s most iconic venues.

Malaysia Reaffirms Commitment to MotoGP

The contract extension was formally approved during a Malaysian Cabinet meeting held on April 15, 2026, underlining the government’s commitment to maintaining MotoGP as a major sporting and economic asset.

YB Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Malaysia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, described the renewal as far more than simply retaining a place on the MotoGP calendar.

“We are delighted that the Government has granted full approval at the Cabinet Meeting on 15 April 2026 for the renewal of MotoGP Malaysia from 2027 to 2031.

“This renewal goes beyond securing Malaysia’s place on the MotoGP global calendar. It reflects our commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s position as a leading motorsports destination while creating opportunities through economic growth, talent development and industry expansion.

“More importantly, MotoGP Malaysia has become a platform that brings Malaysians together, strengthens our sense of national pride and continues to stand as Malaysia’s longest-running international sporting event since its first edition in 1991.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta: Malaysia Remains a Key MotoGP Market

MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta welcomed the extension, highlighting Malaysia’s importance to the championship both commercially and competitively.

“Malaysia is an important market for MotoGP, where we have a strong fanbase and have seen the positive economic impact of MotoGP increase year-on-year.

“Now, we aim to grow both exponentially. Sepang is a fantastic home for our sport – well-connected to one of the world’s truly global cities: Kuala Lumpur, the host city for our unforgettable 2026 Season Launch.

“Great racing, local passion and international appeal create an unforgettable event every year in Malaysia and we look forward to returning until 2031.”

Record Attendance Highlights MotoGP’s Growing Popularity

MotoGP’s popularity in Malaysia continues to reach new heights.

The 2025 Malaysian Grand Prix attracted a record 190,977 spectators, making it the highest-attended edition in the event’s history and one of Southeast Asia’s largest annual sporting events.

Earlier this year, the 2026 MotoGP Season Launch, held in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, also drew tens of thousands of fans, further demonstrating Malaysia’s growing significance within the MotoGP ecosystem.

Economic Benefits Extend Beyond Motorsport

The Malaysian Grand Prix has evolved into more than just a major international racing event.

According to MotoGP and the Malaysian government, the race generates substantial economic benefits by boosting tourism, supporting hospitality businesses, creating employment opportunities, and stimulating investment across multiple industries.

The event is also viewed as an important platform for nurturing local motorsport talent and strengthening Malaysia’s reputation as a leading destination for international sporting events.

2026 Malaysian Grand Prix Scheduled for October

Before the new agreement begins in 2027, MotoGP will return to Sepang for the 2026 Malaysian Grand Prix, which is scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 1, 2026.

As one of the final rounds of the championship, the Sepang race has frequently played a decisive role in MotoGP title battles thanks to its demanding 5.5-kilometre circuit, hot tropical climate, and passionate crowds.

Long-Term Stability for MotoGP in Asia