Rain, haze and 95,000 fans: Sepang ready for F1's spectacular comeback
SEPANG: After almost a decade, Formula 1 roars back into Malaysia this weekend but not quite in the way anyone expected.
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) prepares for a spectacular return to Formula 1 this weekend, hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2-4. This unusual arrangement follows an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain, keeping the Bahrain Grand Prix on the 2026 calendar after security concerns forced the cancellation of the original event.
Sepang, known for unpredictable races and volatile weather, has a record attendance of 126,690 spectators for the 2008 Malaysian GP. The circuit's layout, characterized by long straights and a fast-flowing middle section, requires high tyre management. The threat of rain and regional haze adds additional hazards, with a monsoon rain previously causing a 31-lap red-flag finish in 2009.
Only 10 drivers have raced at Sepang previously, including Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen, who have critical experience to bring to the track. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes leads a cohort of younger drivers making their Sepang debut, including Verstappen, who is tipped for victory by former Minardi driver Alex Yoong.
With 95,000 three-day passes already sold, SIC aims to reach the 100,000 mark, representing a huge turnout for the circuit.
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