F1: Sepang sees smoother fan arrival ahead of Bahrain GP

SEPANG: Thousands of Formula 1 fans arrived at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) on time, thanks to additional shuttle buses and personnel deployed to streamline their arrival. Fans started streaming into the circuit around 11am ahead of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, set to begin at 3pm.

The smoother movement was appreciated by fans who had previously faced congestion and difficulty getting to the circuit. Lawyer Thariq Abdullah, 56, who traveled from Puchong with his family, noted that their shuttle bus journey from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 was much better today compared to his visit last Friday.

He expressed hope that the improved situation would continue, particularly during spectators' departure from the circuit after the race, as problems often arise during the return journey when large groups leave simultaneously.

Thariq, who has attended F1 and MotoGP races multiple times, remarked on the heightened excitement this year, as F1 had returned to Malaysia after a nine-year absence. Malaysia had not hosted the event for a long time, so many attendees were eager to experience the atmosphere. He emphasized that there might be a generation of fans who had never witnessed such enthusiasm before and were there to enjoy it.

Free shuttle buses were available for spectators departing from various locations, including KLIA Terminal 2, Mitsui Outlet Park, Sepang, and Bandar Baru Enstek, Nilai. Efforts were also made to ensure that drinking water was accessible to fans amid the hot weather. A drinking water station was being installed near the SIC entrance, allowing spectators to hydrate while waiting for buses.