Drivers salute passionate Malaysian fans as F1 returns to Sepang
SEPANG: Red Bull's Max Verstappen led the chorus of praise for the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and the Malaysian fans after winning the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday, as Formula One's long-awaited return drew a record 261,000 spectators over the weekend.
Drivers expressed their admiration for the passionate Malaysian fans as Formula One returned to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for the Bahrain Grand Prix. Max Verstappen, who won the race, reminisced about his last visit to the circuit nine years ago, praising the track layout and recalling the enjoyable experience of winning there.
The Dutchman emphasized the memorable nature of the fans' support, noting that it was time to reconnect with the track after a long hiatus. Other drivers echoed the sentiment, with Mercedes' Kimi Antolinelli describing the fans as exceptional and highlighting Sepang's challenging conditions, particularly in rainy weather. Lewis Hamilton, who finished third in the race, called the return to SIC one of the best races on his extensive memory of the circuit, crediting the supportive crowd for making it stand out.
Audi's Gabriel Bortoleto praised the hospitality of the Malaysian fans and their welcoming nature towards visitors. Mercedes driver George Russell, who failed to make the podium due to a power unit failure, expressed his love for Malaysia, specifically mentioning the Petronas Twin Towers as his favorite experience.
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.
