Malaysian Grand Prix dropped after 2017!

Formula 1 will not be returning to Sepang after this year's Malaysian Grand Prix, F1 commercial boss Sean Bratches has announced.

The race has been on the calendar since 1998, and was one of the first exotic fly-away events, and a lucrative one at that, initiated under the Bernie Ecclestone era.

But Malaysia had struggled in recent years with its attendance figures and suffered by the arrival of the very popular Singapore Grand Prix which made its debut in 2008.

"It's always sad to say goodbye to a member of the Formula 1 family," Bratches said.

"Over nearly two decades, the Malaysian Formula 1 fans have proven themselves to be some of the sport's most passionate supporters.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Sepang International Circuit for their hospitality and professionalism over the years, and their ongoing commitment to motorsport."

Grand Prix racing will still include a 21-race schedule next season, with Germany and France both making a welcome return to the calendar.

Gallery: All the pics from Friday's action in China

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.