10th Anniversary of the Malaysia Grand Prix

The Formula One (F1) Malaysia Grand Prix attracts thousands of auto racing fans from around the world. As the biggest racing event in Malaysia, the Grand Prix is always an exciting occasion, but the 2008 event, set to take place on the weekend of 21 to 23 March 2008 at the Sepang International Circuit, promises to be the most exciting yet. Marking the 10th anniversary of the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix, the organizers have a program of events lined up that they are confident will draw record crowds and prove to be highly entertaining for spectators.

In addition to the thrill of the Formula One race, the inclusion of the GP2 Asia Series and the new Speedcar Series as support races at the Malaysia Grand Prix will provide auto racing enthusiasts with additional excitement. As in previous years, the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia and Formula BMW Asia will also form part of the program. The new Speedcar Series is a stock car racing championship which features identical V8 620bph stock cars that are not fitted with electronic driver aids, thereby becoming purely a test of driver skill.

The Sepang International Circuit is considered by many to be one of the most technical circuits in the Formula One series. Combining long high-speed straights with tight twisting turns presents an interesting challenge to auto racing drivers. The track itself is wide and allows opportunity for overtaking, which keeps the excitement of the race at fever-pitch. Add to this a festive atmosphere which is distinctly Malaysian and it is clear to see why the Malaysia Grand Prix is so popular among drivers and spectators alike.

Following the 2007 Formula One race the Sepang International Circuit completely resurfaced the 5.543 kilometer track. Additional safety features included the construction of tarmac run-off areas at seven of the turns as well as extended kerbs at six of the stretches. In addition to improving the safety of the track, all the facilities, including hospitality suites and race offices, were also upgraded. There is no doubt that the Sepang International Circuit and the organizers are ready to welcome the 125,000 auto racing enthusiasts that are expected to gather for the 10th Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix.