Verstappen returns to Sepang, a place which ignited his F1 career
KUALA LUMPUR: It has been nine years since Max Verstappen won the Malaysia Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), and the four-time Formula One champion has even forgotten his way through the paddock, but the memory of his 2017 triumph is still fresh in his mind.
KUALA LUMPUR: A decade has passed since Max Verstappen secured victory at the Malaysia Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, now aged 19 back then, and the reigning Formula One champion still holds the memories of his triumph dear. Driving for Red Bull, Verstappen led from start to finish on the 5.543km track, outpacing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who was with Mercedes at the time.
This was the Dutch driver's second Formula One race victory, but it could have set the tone for his resilience and character, leading to four consecutive F1 titles from 2021 to 2024.
The 2017 Malaysia GP was the final race held at the circuit, but F1 has returned to Sepang with the Bahrain Grand Prix, commencing the following day, to reignite Verstappen's fond memories. However, the Dutchman admitted the time away had affected his navigation, stating, "I had no idea where I had to go" upon his return to the paddock.
Despite the long absence, Verstappen remains enthusiastic about the track layout, expressing his enjoyment of racing in Malaysia due to its challenging nature. He also noted the discomfort caused by high degradation and the general heat of the track.
Verstappen has been in good form recently, finishing second behind Mercedes drivers Kimi Antilainen at the Spanish GP and George Russell at the Azerbaijan GP. As the Sepang stage approaches, the showdown between the Mercedes duo and Verstappen promises to be another thrilling spectacle, nine years after his memorable triumph at the very same circuit.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
