Formula 1 made a highly anticipated return to the Sepang International Circuit on Friday, drawing a diverse crowd of local and international fans eager to witness the sport after a nine-year break. The event, which runs from October 2 to 4, kicked off with two free practice sessions that allowed drivers and teams to reacquaint themselves with the track last used for a Grand Prix in 2017.
Friday’s session took place under warm and humid conditions typical of the Malaysian climate, with partly hazy skies and heat posing physical challenges for the drivers. Although dark clouds loomed later in the day, threatening to disrupt the second practice session, rain did not materialize, allowing the schedule to proceed uninterrupted.
Among the attendees was Robert Poh, a 38-year-old senior accountant from Penang, who traveled to Kuala Lumpur with his family to experience the race weekend. Poh said he and his wife had been following F1 news closely and were motivated to attend once news of the race’s return to Sepang was confirmed. Preparing for the region’s unpredictable weather, the family kept a close watch on conditions throughout the day to ensure their plans were not affected.
International visitors were also present, including Benjamin De Leon Torre and performers from the MassKara Festival of Bacolod City in the Philippines. Known for their signature smiling mask performances born from the city’s historical struggles in the 1980s, the group expressed enthusiasm at participating in Malaysia’s F1 event. Torre noted that, until now, their exposure to Formula 1 had been limited to movies and television, making the live experience a unique opportunity.
From Australia, Rhys Jones and his wife Victoria made their first visit to a Formula 1 race, traveling from Brisbane to be part of the event. Jones highlighted the warm reception they received despite accessibility challenges faced by his wife, who uses a wheelchair and has rheumatoid arthritis. While mobility proved difficult around the circuit, Jones praised the friendliness and hospitality of the people they encountered.
For those unable to attend in person, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) would provide live coverage of the race. In a social media post, Anwar expressed hope that the broadcast would allow viewers nationwide to enjoy the world-class motorsport event.
The weekend’s race marks a significant moment for Malaysian motorsport fans as Formula 1 returns to Sepang after nearly a decade, promising three days of high-speed racing, cultural showcases, and an immersive experience for all attendees.