SIC thank Petronas for unwavering support during partnership

PETALING JAYA: The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) have thanked Petronas for their four-year fruitful partnership in the Motogp after both parties confirmed that they have mutually agreed to go separate ways at the end of the season.

With the backing of the national oil giant as the title sponsor since 2018, the SIC’S Sepang Racing Team (SRT) are currently competing in all the three categories. They race under Petronas Sprinta Racing in the Moto2 and Moto3 and Petronas Yamaha SRT in the flagship class, the Motogp.

SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said the two parties were parting ways on good terms as their joint-venture had met its “purpose and objectives”.

“SIC wish to thank Petronas for the unwavering support during the partnership and a remarkable journey together,” said Azhan in a statement yesterday.

“We respect Petronas’ decision, and mutually agreed that this partnership has accomplished its purpose and objectives.

“I believe this is not the end of our collaboration in motorsports as we continue our quest in nurturing Malaysia’s motorsports talents.”

Petronas Yamaha SRT made their presence felt the moment they entered the premier class in 2019 when Frenchman Fabio Quartararo and 2017 Moto2 world champion Franco Morbidelli of Italy steered the newcomers to fourth placing in the team standings.

Quartararo scored seven podiums and six pole positions en route to finishing fifth in the overall championship standings while Morbidelli came in 10th.

The team built on the solid start as they went on to win six races across the 2020 campaign and this time, Morbidelli stood out as the runner-up in the championship to Spaniard Joan Mir of Suzuki.

Azhan said their plans for the 2022 season would be announced in due course.

“SIC are proud to have been involved in the formation and early development of the team that had surpassed expectations in its performance,” added Azhan.

“We wish the team all the best in the next phase of their evolution under a new entity.”

Petronas head of strategic communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz said: “Together, we have created some standout moments in the sport, serving as an indication that we have achieved what we set out to do and we felt it was the right time for us to conclude the partnership.

“On behalf of Petronas, we would like to express our gratitude to SIC for their commitment towards ensuring the success of the partnership.”