Malaysia eyes new three-year deal

Editor

Malaysian Grand Prix promoters are yet to agree a contract extension with F1's commercial rights holders, but they are hoping for a new three-year deal.

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC), which joined the Formula 1 calendar back in 1999, signed an eight-year contract in 2007 and this year's race will be the last under the current deal.

Official started negotiation on a new contract with the F1 role players last year, but they are yet to come to an agreement.

This year's Malaysian GP is scheduled for 29 March and SIC chairperson Tan Sri Mokhzani Tun Dr Mahathir is optimistic the circuit will continue to host the race.

"The talks are centred on an agreeable price for organising the prestigious race for the next three years," he told Bernama news agency

"We also have to take into consideration the current economic volatility… for now we have not made any decision yet (on extending the contract). We have to ensure the negotiations proceed smoothly."