Here’s Why Sepang’s Next F1 Race Could Become A Permanent Night Race

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Malaysia's temporary return to the F1 stage has reignited enthusiasm for the Sepang International Circuit, with key stakeholders expressing interest in making the venue a regular fixture on the calendar once again

Both the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and global lighting leader Signify have expressed optimism about future possibilities at the track, including equipping Sepang for night racing, according to FMT.

Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord highlighted the team's strong connection with Malaysian supporters, describing the country as feeling like a home venue for the outfit.

Reflecting on a major fan event at the PETRONAS Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur ahead of the recent Bahrain Grand Prix (GP) hosted at Sepang, Lord recalled how thousands gathered to welcome the team, effectively bringing the city centre to a standstill.

Despite a challenging race weekend from 2 to 4 October, Lord said Mercedes would enthusiastically welcome Sepang's permanent return to the F1 calendar

He jokingly added that the team might only ask for the circuit to be resurfaced ahead of a full-scale return.

The recent Bahrain GP was relocated to Sepang from the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir due to ongoing regional conflicts in West Asia since February.

The event marked a dramatic resurgence for local motorsport enthusiasm, drawing 261,000 spectators across three days.

Signify chief executive officer As Tempelman confirmed that technical requirements would present no barrier should Malaysian authorities decide to explore a night race format at Sepang

Speaking during a media session, Tempelman noted that while the initial decision rests entirely with local event organisers and government authorities, the technology company is fully capable of delivering high-performance track lighting.

Engineering partner DZ Engineering, which has collaborated with Signify on landmark night races in Singapore, Las Vegas, and Saudi Arabia since 2008, also signalled its intention to submit a lighting proposal if Sepang pursues night racing capability.

The renewed interest comes as Asia prepares to overtake Europe in F1 hosting duties for the first time, with nine Asian races slated for 2027 following the return of the Turkish GP

Malaysia remains among several Asian nations, alongside Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea, exploring potential places on the expanding global calendar.