Malaysia's iconic circuit near Kuala Lumpur, famous for tropical downpours that transform races. The 3.44-mile track with its dramatic twin towers was designed by Tilke and hosted F1 from 1999 to 2017.
About Sepang International Circuit
Sepang International Circuit is a permanent racing circuit, located in Sepang, Selangor. Drivers cover 5.543 km (3.444 miles) and 15 corners each lap, run clockwise.
The circuit opened in 1999 and holds FIA Grade 1 licensing. It appears on the Formula 1 and MotoGP calendars. Around 130,000 spectators can attend.
Circuit History
Sepang was a statement of intent. The Malaysian government under Mahathir Mohamad commissioned it as part of the Vision 2020 programme meant to establish the country as an industrial and technological centre, and Mahathir's own interest in motorsport pushed it along. Ground was broken on 1 November 1997 and the circuit opened on 7 March 1999.
It matters beyond Malaysia because it was the first circuit Hermann Tilke designed for Formula 1, and it set the pattern nearly every new venue has followed since — wide track, long straights ending in tight corners to encourage overtaking, and vast grandstands under a distinctive roof. The first Malaysian Grand Prix ran on 17 October 1999 before 80,000 spectators and was won by Eddie Irvine. Sunday afternoon tropical downpours became a fixture of the event.
Best Hotels Near Sepang International Circuit
6 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
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Hotel · 16.3 km from circuit · 19 min drive · 4.5 (18,725) on Google · $
KLIA2, 64000 Sepang, Malaysia
Budget airside hotel at KLIA2, the most affordable option near Sepang circuit. The drive to Sepang International Circuit takes about 19 minutes (10.1 miles).
Nearest Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) — approximately 6 km from the circuit
The usual route is the KLIA Transit train from KL Sentral to KLIA, about 35 minutes, then a dedicated shuttle bus for the final 15-20 minutes to the circuit. Combined ticket packages are sold on Grand Prix weekends. Allow considerably longer for the return journey after the race.
Race Weekend Tips for Sepang
Visiting Sepang International Circuit for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Sepang, Selangor. The circuit holds up to 130,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Book accommodation as soon as race dates are confirmed.
Download the circuit's official app for maps, schedules, and real-time updates during the weekend.
Arrive at the circuit early on race day to avoid traffic congestion and secure the best viewing positions.
Pack for variable weather — conditions can change dramatically over a three-day race weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Sepang International Circuit?
Sepang International Circuit is in Sepang, Selangor. The nearest airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), is about 6 km from the circuit.
How many hotels does RaceTrackStays list near Sepang International Circuit?
6 properties are listed near Sepang International Circuit, the closest 8.5 km from the circuit. Each one is listed with its measured distance from the circuit, and every entry links to the property's own site.
Upcoming Race Weekends at Sepang International Circuit