KUALA LUMPUR — Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz has become the first woman appointed as chairman of Sepang International Circuit (SIC), marking a historic breakthrough in Malaysian motorsports leadership.
Anita’s appointment signals a major step forward for gender representation in the industry, long dominated by male figures.
It also comes just weeks after she was named chairman of the Malaysia Stadium Corporation (PSM) — another first for a woman in the role.
She takes over from Tan Sri Azman Yahya, who officially stepped down after nearly a decade leading SIC through a period of growth, global recognition, and infrastructure development.
“It is a great honour to take on this role at a time of exciting transformation,” Anita said in a statement released by SIC today.
“I look forward to working with the Board and SIC team to build on the strong foundation he established and to drive SIC’s continued growth as a global motorsports and innovation hub.”
Anita brings more than 30 years of experience in motorsports, corporate strategy and stakeholder engagement.
She is widely known for her role in establishing Petronas’ long-running Formula 1 partnership with Mercedes AMG Petronas — one of the sport’s most iconic and successful collaborations.
Her dual appointments to SIC and PSM underscore the growing presence of women in top-level sports administration.
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh praised the move, saying: “We warmly welcome Datin Anita Azrina, whose depth of experience in motorsports and strategic brand leadership makes her the ideal choice.”
Hannah also paid tribute to Azman’s tenure, describing it as “nothing short of visionary”.
Azman, who joined the SIC board in 2010 and became chairman in 2016, helped shape the circuit into a premier motorsports venue.
Among his achievements were securing long-term MotoGP hosting rights, establishing the Sepang Racing Team (PSRT), and steering the circuit through the pandemic with strong financial performance.
“I am extremely pleased to pass the baton to Datin Anita,” said Azman. “I am confident she will bring fresh perspectives, renewed enthusiasm, and vision that will continue to uphold SIC’s status as a world-class motorsports hub.”
SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif added: “Tan Sri Azman’s leadership has been foundational… we are incredibly excited to work closely with Datin Anita Azrina, whose wealth of experience and passion will undoubtedly drive SIC to even greater heights.”
Anita steps into the role as SIC prepares to expand further as a motorsports township and innovation hub, supported by a 97-year land sublease secured under Azman’s leadership. — April 17, 2025