Sepang 'Redef1ines' F1 weekend to mark new calendar slot
The Sepang International Circuit has revealed an expanded programme for spectators to enjoy when they attend the 2016 Malaysian Grand Prix to celebrate its new September-October calendar date.
The 18th edition of the Malaysian Grand Prix has been moved from an early-season slot to host the 16th round of the season on September 30 - October 2nd, directly after the Singapore Grand Prix.
To mark this, the Sepang International Circuit has launched the 2016 Formula One PETRONAS Malaysia Grand Prix - themed Experience Redef1ned, which will include fan parks, fan forums, exhibitions and the XTrack for all ages showcasing drifting, rallying and go-karting.
"There are many firsts as well as fresh experiences that Formula One fans can look forward to this year," said SIC CEO Dato' Razlan Razali. "In line with our theme Experience Redef1ned, fans can enjoy all the elements that make Formula One so exciting in fresh new ways. Besides new action on the track with the line-up of exciting support races, the public can look forward to new activities for the whole family that expands from last year's Family Carnival concept.
"We want to encourage families to make the Formula One a weekend outing and also nurture more young Formula One fans. Nevertheless, regardless of who you're coming with or your personal preference, there are many attractive ticket types and packages for every type of fan - whether you want to get closer to the drivers, enjoy more comfort, get a great view of the After-Race concert, and more."
This year's event will see the GP2 Series return and the GP3 Series make its debut, with youngsters Nabil Jaffri and Akash Neil Nandy representing Malaysia in their respective series'.
"Come experience everything we have to offer and most importantly, come support our Malaysian talents Nabil Jeffri in the GP2 and Akash Neil Nandy in the GP3. Home support is invaluable for any competitor, so let's make this a rookie home race to remember for both our young talents. Legends like Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher worked their way up from GP2 and GP3, so our young drivers are in exalted company. With the track resurfaced and upgraded earlier this year, this also offers all the drivers a new race experience - and we can look forward to some additional excitement during the race," Rizali added.
With title sponsor Petronas enjoying continued success as title partner with the championship leading Mercedes AMG team, Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications Zahariah Abd Rahman says she is pleased pleased the oil giant is continuing to support one of Malaysia's biggest annual sporting events.
"To compete in such demanding grounds requires ingenuity, unprecedented perseverance and a partner that shares the same desire to win. We are pleased to be part of the PMGP 2016 for its 18th year now and to be a technical partner of the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team for the 4th year running. The strategic decisions we've made over the years are reinforced today to be perfectly in alignment. Despite having just over 20 years of experience in Formula One, a relatively short period compared to other heavyweights; PETRONAS has successfully achieved historical wins with breakthrough fuel and lubricants that power champions in the most gruelling motorsport event."
"PETRONAS is blessed and honoured that our involvement in the Formula One PETRONAS Malaysia Grand Prix is one of the company's significant contribution to the nation. PETRONAS will always be associated with the brand that brings Formula One to Malaysia and its people. Vice versa, our successful endeavour thus far has brought Malaysia to the world stage to be recognised for our prowess in cutting edge technology and innovation.
The activity line-up for the Formula One PETRONAS Malaysia Grand Prix is a mix of fan favourites and new experiences. The Drivers' Autograph Session, Malaysian School Pit Lane Walk, Drivers Fan Forum, XTrack for all ages showcasing motorsports-themed thrills such as drifting, rallying, go-karting, ATV rides, the Strider Cup and an array of other sports activities for the kids to enjoy. The Mall Area will feature an awe-inspiring showcase of supercars, a Formula One Gamezone with the latest enhanced simulator machines, a Formula One Village with shopping opportunities, and much more - it's everything a fan could want. Race day will also feature a classic car display, supercar convoy and air show.
Leading up to race week, SIC is organising fun activities including live viewing sessions of Formula One races complete with contests and a 50% discount on tickets. New this year is a special Formula One Tour that allows fans to get up close to a Formula One car. It travels from Singapore right after the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix with pit stops in Johor, Melaka, Seremban and Kuala Lumpur, giving the public the opportunity to learn and experience the wonders behind Formula One racing. Other not-to-be missed race week activities are the City Meet and Greet and Formula One City Parties, and a preview of the exciting After-race Concert headlined by Usher
