This weekend sees the arrival of one of the most highly anticipated events in motorsports – the Malaysian Grand Prix. F1 fans will be tuning in as Lewis Hamilton returns to Sepang to defend his world title and uphold the dominance of Petronas’ sponsored team, Mercedes, after their one-two victory in Australia. And as the excitement kicks into gear sending us racing enthusiasts into overdrive, we can’t help but wish we were there to witness the F1 drama as it unfolds. As if you needed convincing, here are our Top 10 reasons why the Sepang Grand Prix should be at the very top of your travel to do list.
Top 10 Reasons to Experience Sepang’s F1
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Perhaps the biggest draw for all racing enthusiasts is the affordability of the tickets. The Malaysian Grand Prix offers the cheapest F1 tickets with prices starting from as little as £26. Not to mention the 50% early bird discount in the first few months of ticket sales.
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The Sepang circuit, amongst the newer tracks to join the Formula One World Championship, is accepted as the most advanced in terms of facilities. Designed by leading F1 architect Hermann Tilke, the track’s first race was held in 1999.
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The circuit is considered one of the most challenging racetracks of all for the tremendous demands on both the drivers and their cars; it is known for its long stretches of high-speed straights, tight twists, sweeping bends, a bumpy surface and a wide track which allows for plenty of overtaking. This combined with the added challenge of Malaysia’s fickle weather and you have all the ingredients for a nail biting F1 experience.
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The Sepang circuit is easily reached from Kuala Lumpur. This means that visitors can explore the many sights at the hub of Southeast Asia, including the iconic Petronas Twin Towers which are the head sponsors of the Malaysian Grand Prix and of Mercedes. The close proximity to Kuala Lumpur also means that visitors can combine the quality of action with that of accommodation. Only 50km from Sepang with excellent transportation to and from the circuit, choose from our amazing selection of luxury Kuala Lumpur hotels. Alternatively, take the pole position by staying in Sepang. Soak up the electric atmosphere and be in the midst of all the high speed action at the breathtaking waterfront Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort.
Sepang’s Grandstand
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Unlike many other grandstands Sepang has been designed in a stadium-like fashion and offers spectators fantastic views irrespective of where they sit; it is possible to see as much as half of the circuit at all times, from all angles.
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Sepang offers F1 fans a Pit Walk experience which enables them to go behind the scenes and take a peak into team garages, see the cars and even catch a glimpse of some attending drivers.
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The driver’s autograph session is another popular event where attendees can meet and greet their favourite competitors.
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Besides the races, exciting entertainment and attractions are on offer to those coming from all over the world to enjoy the action-packed sport. The Xtrack circuit enables fans to get a taste of the racing thrill for themselves, with extreme activities including drifting, karting and rallying all available. Meanwhile, the F1 Village is the place to go for some exclusive F1 merchandise and to enjoy F1 simulators and other related activities.
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A drivers parade is arranged in which the famous faces of F1 parade around in an open-top bus.
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Famous acts perform at the post-race concert. Last year Calvin Harris headlined and this year legend Lenny Kravitz will take the stage.
Sepang Circuit Fact File
- Track Length: 3,444 miles
- Lap Record – 1:34.223 (set by Pablo Montoya for BMW Williams in 2004)
- Max Speed – 303kph (188.235mph)
- Race Laps – 56
- Grandstand Capacity– 80,000
It may be too late to book for this year, but why not get a jump-start on next year? Book a holiday to Malaysia now to experience the rush of the Sepang Grand Prix. Check out our Sepang and Kuala Lumpur accommodations.