Martin Brundle uncovers major F1 calendar news after instant Sepang classic
Brundle has given fans what they wanted to hear (Photo: Race Pictures)
Connor Andrews is Formula 1 and MotoGP writer for GPblog and various outlets. Having worked in motorsport for 15 years for leading companies, he has interviewed the sports biggest names and attended multiple Grands Prix.
Martin Brundle may have given Formula 1 fans the news they were desperate to hear in Malaysia.
F1 returned to Sepang for the Bahrain Grand Prix, with the Kuala Lumpur circuit returning to the calendar as a substitute for the first time since 2017.
Despite early chaos with the new power units which saw the race delayed for an hour, once cars hit the track it was an instant classic.
The Sepang International Circuit produced racing for the ages, challenging weather, and even old fashioned tarmac that the new tyres couldn’t cope with.
Watchers were begging for more once Max Verstappen had crossed the line in first, and they may well get their wishes granted.
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During his pre-race gridwalk, former McLaren and Williams driver Brundle caught the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, who delivered some tantalising news.
Malaysian PM opens door to talks over F1 return
Asked by Brundle if there’s any chance of the circuit coming back regularly, the politician said: “Well we’re looking forward to discussing [it].”
The news isn’t just a boon to fans, but the drivers too, with many applauding it throughout the weekend.
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Malaysia's PM may be set for more talks (Photo: Race Pictures)
Mercedes’ George Russell called it ‘really cool’ during his first practice laps, while Lewis Hamilton said the sport needs more classic tracks.
He commented ahead of the race: “I always loved going to KL. I had lots of great experiences there with my previous team; the track is awesome.
“It is, and it is a circuit that does give good racing. And when it comes to deciding which tracks to go through in the year, that should be a part of the decision-making.
“We want good races for fans, not ones that you don't see any overtaking in. So I'm very much welcoming it. I'm looking forward to it. Again, it's a super hot circuit. That’s gonna be one that's physically massively demanding, so I look forward to that challenge.”
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Sepang reaction contrasts sharply with Madrid
The comments were a stark contrast to the verdict the Madrid Grand Prix got two races earlier.
Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto said he ‘almost fell asleep’ while reigning champion Lando Norris was baffled at how bad the circuit was.
“I don’t know how someone looks at this design and goes ‘mint’,” he said. “There’s a lot of opportunity. They can make it into a track that’s good for racing.”
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