BREAKING NEWS: Shell Malaysia Motorcycle MotoGP 2020 cancelled

Michelle Liew

July 31, 2020

This is the first time Malaysian Grand Prix will not be hosted in Malaysia after more than 20 years of this prestigious event continuously held in SIC.

Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix cancelled | Photo credits: SIC

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has regrettably announced the cancellation of the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix 2020. The outbreak of COVID-19 has caused many races to take a setback and Malaysian GP is no exception.

Originally, the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix 2020 was scheduled to take place on 30 October to 1 November 2020. The outbreak has led to Dorna Sports, the organizer for MotoGP, to release a revised 13-rounds calendar with back-to-back races in Europe. Malaysia is the latest addition to the cancellation of the flyaway rounds which includes America, Argentina and Thailand.

Malaysia has been the longest-serving venue for the Grand Prix in South East Asia since 1991.

SIC has been a permanent fixture on the calendar for the Malaysian Grand Prix after taking over from Shah Alam Circuit and Johor Circuit in 1999. Since then, MotoGP is the biggest two-wheels International sporting event in Malaysia. It has garnered crowd from all over the world gathered at SIC for this 3-day event. SIC is one of the longest and most challenging circuits of the season and no doubt it is one of the favourites among the riders and team. The 5.543km track has staged some all-time classic races and provides fans with a unique experience on and off track.

“We are truly disappointed on this cancellation and actually. We are looking forward to watching the actions on the home ground especially from our local boys, Kasma Daniel, Khairul Idham Pawi, Hafizh Syahrin and PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team who have had a great start to the season.”

“But with the ongoing Covid-19, the safety of all is the main priority. We can’t afford to risk the health of others,” says Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Malaysian Grand Prix, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SIC.

“I’m sure this is sad news for MotoGP fans in Malaysia and all over the world who have made the event what it is today. We have seen an increasing number of spectators for the Malaysian Grand Prix year-on-year. We thank all fans and partners for their continuous support. The best thing to do right now is to keep supporting our local boys and team who are still competing in the championship. We hope to come back bigger and better for Malaysian Grand Prix 2021.”