Malaysian Grand Prix to provide variety

The 2009 Formula One Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix, which celebrates its 11th edition next month, has marked the beginning of a new era as Sepang International Circuit (SIC) promotes the F1 event differently.

SIC spokesman Azhar Ghazali said with the new approach, SIC wants to showcase itself as an entertainment venue as well, and not just a racing circuit.

Met at the F1 Roadshow in Gurney Plaza here today, he said with an aim of bringing the fans closer to the F1 fraternity and SIC, among new programmes incorporated to inject further excitement for the fans and spectators included a meet-and-greet session with the F1 drivers where fans can meet and get their autographs in one special session at the spectator areas.

Read the full story here

Malaysia must be prepared to stage Formula One races at night says Bernie Ecclestone

Malaysia must be prepared to stage Formula One races at night to stay on the FIA's F1 calendar or even harbour any hope of an extension of the Malaysian Grand Prix contract that expires in 2010.

This was among a number of conditions, or rather terms, put forward by Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone with regards to talks of an extension of the contract for staging the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir said: "The FIA wants us to be prepared to stage night races as well as carry out some upgrading works at the circuit.

"We are actually studying what kind of light that would be suitable, the security aspects, which will certainly be our top priority, and a few other things before anything can be firmed up."

Read full article here