MotoGP Final Race: Sepang International Circuit Ready to Step In as Replacement Host
The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has not yet decided whether to take over the hosting of the World Motorcycle Championship (MotoGP) final race, which was originally scheduled to take place at the Valencia Grand Prix in Spain. SIC Chief Executive Officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif confirmed that there has been no discussion with race organiser Dorna regarding the possibility of hosting the event in Malaysia.
Ready to Host, but No Decision Made
Hanif stated that Malaysia is always ready to host the race if Dorna accepts its request to replace Valencia. "If they give (us to host), we are ready. If so, can we hold it here, maybe in December? But for now, there is no discussion about having it here. Perhaps they are looking for another circuit, maybe in Europe," he said.
Tyre Production Could Pose a Challenge
However, Hanif highlighted that the production of tyres for each circuit is a significant factor in hosting the event. "They can hold it in Malaysia but technically the tyres they produce for each circuit is different. So for them to return to Malaysia, making new tyres takes about a month which is two weeks to make the tyres and two weeks to shape the tyres," he explained.
Flooding Cancellation and New Location to be Announced
The MotoGP final race was originally scheduled to take place at the Valencia GP from November 15-17, but was cancelled due to heavy flooding in the Spanish province of Valencia, which caused destruction and claimed over 200 lives. Dorna has announced that the new location to host the final race will be announced soon.
Conclusion
The Sepang International Circuit is ready to step in as a potential replacement host for the MotoGP final race, but no decision has been made yet. With the significant factor of tyre production in mind, it remains to be seen if Malaysia will ultimately host the event.
FAQs
- Is the Sepang International Circuit ready to host the MotoGP final race?
- Yes, the SIC is always ready to host the race if Dorna accepts its request.
- Has Dorna discussed hosting the race at the Sepang International Circuit?
- No, there has been no discussion yet.
- What is the reason for the cancellation of the original event?
- Heavy flooding in the Spanish province of Valencia, which caused destruction and claimed over 200 lives.
- When will the new location for the final race be announced?
- The organiser will announce the new location soon.