Sepang does not want a night Grand Prix

The Formula 1 Grand Prix races held in Asia are broadcast in Europe early in the morning, but to attract more viewers, the schedules have been changed in recent years so that the races start later and therefore less early in Europe. With the appearance of the first Formula 1 night Grand Prix in Singapore in 2008, there was talk of adjusting some races to be held at night.

A night session was suggested for the Australian Grand Prix, but the organizers are not interested. The same goes for the Malaysian Grand Prix, which will take place next week. Datuk Ahmad Razlan Ahmad Razali, one of the officials at the Sepang circuit, stated that he is satisfied with the current proceedings of the event and is not in favor of holding the Malaysian Grand Prix at night.

Personally, I would not encourage a night race, but then again, we will see what conclusion the consultants come to (regarding having a night race). The research is ongoing and a decision must be made after our presentation of the economic impact, Datuk Ahmad Razlan Ahmad Razali told the news agency Bernama.

He also believes that modifying the layout to host a night race – particularly with the installation of floodlights – would make the race less appealing: « It’s very expensive, especially for the lights. You have to imagine the Sepang circuit with its beautiful setting, but if you have a night race, then you’ll have towers of lights or concrete poles. I don’t think that would be nice. »

Ahmad Razali also believes that a night race is not feasible due to the frequent showers in Malaysia: « The circuit is not designed for night races, and if it rains, it will be very dangerous as well. Heavy nighttime showers could force the stoppage or cancellation of the race.»