An introduction to the Malaysian Grand Prix
The second race of the Formula One season is a popular one with fans and drivers alike: the Sepang Circuit in Kuala Lumpur. It features a new state-of-the-art circuit that boasts long high-speed straights and tight twisting complexes but with a wide track to encourage overtaking.
Since joining the F1 season in 1999, the Malaysian Grand Prix has only been held on the Sepang Circuit and has established itself as an important date on the F1 racing calendar. Until recently it was Asia's only F1 race, held just outside Kuala Lumpur near the airport. In 2001 the Malaysian GP was moved from late in the season to become the second race on the calendar. Usually held in mid-March under intense tropical heat, this Grand Prix has a reputation as F1's hottest race and has dished up some exciting results.
The debut race in 1999 will always be remembered for a controversial Ferrari disqualification. A disagreement about the size of the Ferrari's bargeboards, in apparent contravention of the rules, led to the disqualification of Eddie Irvine and Michael Schumacher who had finished first and second respectively. The points were eventually reinstated after an FIA hearing just before the final race of that year.
Sebastian Vettel won the Malaysian Grand Prix back-to-back in 2010 and 2011. But the most wins in Sepang goes to Michael Schumacher, who has won it here three times. The fastest lap record is held by Juan Pablo Montoya, at 1:34.223 seconds, posted in 2004.