Sepang gets fast and furious
Preparations for Grand Prix going full speed ahead
SEPANG: Fasten your seat belts and get set for the furious action that’s coming to town. The much awaited event of the year is back.
Preparations have now kicked into high gear at the Sepang International Circuit for the upcoming Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix next weekend.
Sepang International Circuit chief executive officer Datuk Razlan Razali said the Formula One Management (FOM) containers have arrived and were being set up.
“FOM circuit engineers are also in the midst of laying cables for time keeping and broadcasting.
“The work on the equipment is already 50% completed,” he said.
A site visit by The Star saw engineers scrutinising the Mercedes-AMG GT S safety car and Mercedes-AMG C63 S Estate medical car at the pit lane.
The engineers were also spotted inspecting the cables.
“This will be the first time we are hosting two international motorsports events in the same month.
“Yes, it is going to be a hectic time ahead but we are very excited to be the host,” he said.
The Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix will run from Sept 30 to Oct 2 while the MotoGP is from Oct 28-30.
Fans should also come prepared with umbrellas and raincoats as October is expected to be a wet month.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Seri Madius Tangau said scattered rain had been forecast for early in the month, followed by thunderstorms towards the end.
“In general, during the Formula One race, the Malaysian Meteorological Department has predicted isolated showers over the coastal areas.
“Isolated thunderstorms are also expected during the MotoGP,” he said.
Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix has a reputation for an unpredictable outcome.
In 2012, the pitwall radar showed steady showers 10 minutes before the race. Due to heavy rain, the race was suspended on Lap 9.
Fernando Alonso of Scuderia Ferrari won the race after it resumed.
The following year, the race began with a damp track which saw Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing Formula One team emerging victorious.