George Russell tops the 'first session' of the week in Malaysia

Due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Bahrain Grand Prix has been re-scheduled and moved to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.

Multiple Formula 1 drivers, including Russell, Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, Oscar Piastri, Oliver Bearman and Gabriel Bortoleto, travelled together to Malaysia and began exploring the Southeast Asian country.

The six drivers went to Langkawi Island to discover its natural sights, Russell shared on social media. Moreover, they also went karting, where they were joined by former F1 driver Roberto Merhi.

Under the alias 'g dawg', Russell carried on his good form from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last Saturday and set the quickest lap with a 1:24.2. Merhi was the second fastest, while Sainz completed the 'podium'. Albon set the fourth-best time, ahead of Bearman, Bortoleto and Piastri.

Later, in Mercedes' video on social media, Russell also admitted he had no clue who actually won the race, as it was 'carnage'.

The drivers are set for a difficult weekend in Malaysia. It will not only be a humid one with an increased chance of rain, but due to the warm conditions, FIA Formula 1 Race Director Rui Marques has also declared a so-called 'Heat Hazard'.

Meanwhile, the local fans are looking forward to the weekend at Sepang and taking advantage of the sudden opportunity to watch a Formula 1 race live, circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif expects to reach 100,000 in ticket sales.