Sepang reopens its doors to Formula 1 after nine years

Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia is set to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix after a nine-year absence, replacing the Bahrain Grand Prix that was not held in April. The 5.543 km circuit last hosted F1 in 2017 and features lengthy straights combined with high-speed corners, with tyre management expected to be a key factor due to high ambient temperatures and a relatively abrasive surface. Pirelli has selected the C2, C3, and C4 compounds as Hard, Medium, and Soft respectively, aiming to offer teams a broader strategic range and reduce the time gap between one-stop and two-stop strategies.