Reezal confident motorsports will roar back soon
SPORTS Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican is optimistic of getting approval for the resumption of motorsports activities in the country soon.
Reezal, who visited the Sepang Circuit yesterday for a presentation on the standard operating procedure (SOP) for motorsports events, was impressed by the proactive measures taken by motorsports authorities in the fight against Covid-19.
The top brass from Sepang International Circuit, Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the various race organisers as well as racing drivers and riders were present during Reezal’s visit to Sepang.
Reezal said he will push for motor racing, as well as a number of other sports, to be given approval to resume activities at the special ministers meeting on the implementation of the Movement Control Order on July 9.
Motorsports activities, which include practice and testing sessions, are currently allowed under the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO). However, racing events remain prohibited for now.
“I am here for a field visit (yesterday) to see for myself the state of readiness of Sepang to host events and to witness the implementation of motorsports SOP. This is for me to bring to the ministers meeting on MCO (July 9),” said Reezal.
“In general, the preparations here have been done with great attention to detail.
“As we are aware, the organising of events are not allowed as it involves mass gatherings. Motorsports, however, are in included among a number of non-contact sports which can be given consideration (to be held).
“But we must gain the confidence of the National Security Council and the Health Ministry.
“Personally, I am optimistic that the organisation of events here (Sepang), conducted in a prestigious manner, will return after the meeting on July 9.|
Reezal, however, added that the fate of the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix remains to be seen as there are many factors that need to be considered. The MotoGP race was initially scheduled for Oct 30-Nov 1.
“We have to go one step at a time. The priority now is to obtain approval for domestic races to resume,” added Reezal.
“This (Malaysian GP) involves other ministries as well as border control, which is not under our ministry.
“We have managed to build some confidence by lowering the number of Covid-19 cases in the country. Malaysians are very disciplined when it comes to adhering to SOP.
“But border control (influx of foreign visitors) could be one aspect which leads to new outbreaks.”
Reezal disclosed that he is also looking to push for the approval of full contact training for teams sports such as football, basketball and sepak takraw to be allowed.