Malaysia Grand Prix

Well known for its unpredictable nature, the Malaysia Grand Prix is often a highly entertaining weekend in the Formula 1 calendar. The crowds are treated to a vast amount of action both off and on the circuit, with the weather being as erratic as some of the driving. A tropical storm can emerge from nowhere and this adds spice to both the preparations and race itself. The race takes place at Sepang and has had some extremely famous moments, including Michael Schumacher’s return from injury back in 1999, the inaugural Grand Prix to be held in Malaysia. Basically, anything can happen on the extremely exciting circuit and this is the main attraction of the often feisty Malaysia Grand Prix.

2011 Season

The 2011 Malaysia Grand Prix will take place on the 15th, 16th and 17th April 2011 and once again Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull will be the man to beat. In last year’s race, the German moved past Nico Rosberg before overtaking pole sitter Mark Webber on the opening lap to take the lead which he held until the very end.

Following an impressive display in the 2011 curtain raiser in Australia, Vettel will look to assert his dominance in Malaysia. As ever, the conditions could influence the outcome of the contest, with McLaren drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button likely to favour wet conditions.

The pole runner often fairs well in this race so the Saturday qualifying will be crucial. Should Vettel be at the front of the grid, it will take an excellent display to overtake him.

However, since the move of the Malaysia Grand Prix to the beginning of the Formula 1 season, there have been many surprising results as teams and drivers get used to their newest equipment, so it could be an extremely fascinating race.

Overview

The management of the Sepang International Circuit are often looking at making the Malaysia Grand Prix better and better. This was highlighted in 2009 when they announced how they planned to host the second night race of Formula 1. This never materialised, with them opting for a late afternoon slot instead, a decision which proved somewhat disastrous. Following heavy rainfall and poor light conditions the race was abandoned. So, it may not always go according to plan in Malaysia and conditions may often differ from the norm, but boy it is always an eventful and mouth-watering weekend.

Looking at the circuit specifically, it consists of 56 laps, covering a distance of 5.543 km. It is a circuit that has raised all standards for other countries hosting Grand Prix and one which can hold an impressive 130,000 spectators. It was designed with overtaking in mind with its wide track and four slow corners. Simply put, it was created with entertainment in mind – the way it should be done. Ticket prices have even been reduced in recent years with the intention of getting more local people in to watch. This is what it is all about.

Riding for Hong Kong, John MacDonald has won the most individual races with four success in Malaysia, while Ferrari lead the way as far as teams are concerned with five victories.

History

The Formula 2 races held at the Thomson Road circuit in Singapore back in 1962-1965 are believed to be the early developments of the Malaysia Grand Prix. Following Singapore’s departure from the Malaysian Federation, Malaysia hosted a series of racing tournaments in Shah Alam between 1968 and 1995.

The first time Malaysia hosted an official Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix was in 1999 and since then it has been one of the most popular Grand Prix for spectators and drivers.

Key Moments

2008

The organisers of the event ruled out night racing, despite initially signalling their intentions to follow through with the idea.

2007

Formula 1 president Bernie Ecclestone criticised the surrounding area of the Malaysian circuit, saying it needed some redecorating.

2001

The event was hit with an extremely heavy rainstorm during the race, making it extremely difficult for drivers who were skidding on the surface regularly.

1999

The first ever Grand Prix in Malaysia saw an eventful return from injury for Michael Schumacher. The German dominated the race before handing victory to title-hopeful team-mate Eddie Irvine before both drivers were disqualified for a technical irregularity.