Sepang nostalgia: Russell calls Malaysia track his childhood favourite, now racing it for real

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 — Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One driver George Russell is embracing the current haze in Malaysia, stating that the hot and humid weather will present the same challenge for all drivers ahead of the upcoming Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Russell emphasized that the heat and humidity are an integral part of the excitement and challenge of racing in Malaysia.

He also recalled that Sepang was his favorite track from his childhood, having raced virtually on PlayStation, and he believes those memories may help him perform better this weekend. Teammate Kimi Antonelli anticipates tyre management to be the main challenge at Sepang due to the circuit's old and abrasive surface, which could lead to high tyre degradation.

Antonelli also mentioned that Malaysia's unpredictable weather, especially the possibility of heavy rain, could add an extra layer of difficulty to the race weekend, particularly as the drivers have limited experience driving in wet conditions with the current cars.