Sepang MotoGP test plans 'proceeding', awaiting government go ahead

While awaiting final approval by the Malaysian Government, plans are currently 'proceeding' to hold next month's opening 2021 MotoGP tests and Petronas Yamaha team launch at Sepang.

The tests would mark MotoGP's first non-European outing since widespread coronavirus restrictions began almost one year ago.

But with Malaysia's borders currently closed to foreigners unless given formal written approval by the Malaysian Government and a mandatory quarantine in place for those that are allowed to enter, the country's Immigration department needs to give special permission for the MotoGP tests - a Shakedown on February 14-16 followed by the Official test from February 19-21 - to go ahead.

In order to get such approval, MotoGP teams are expecting protocols similar, if not stricter, to those seen during the 2020 racing season - including PCR tests before and after arrival, plus controlled movement and strict 'bubbles' when in Malaysia.

Such protocols will also apply for the official 2021 launch by the local Petronas Yamaha team, scheduled to be held at the Sepang circuit on the eve of the Official test.

At present, no written media are expected to be allowed at the presentation, where new signing Valentino Rossi and team-mate Franco Morbidelli will unveil their 2021 YZR-M1 livery, with the event instead being live-streamed over the internet for journalists and fans.

After Sepang, a second and final test is scheduled for Qatar on March 10-12, venue for the season-opening round on March 28, although the provisional calendar (below) is certain to undergo changes given the ongoing rise in coronavirus cases...