Symonds curious on the improved Sepang Circuit

Editor

With the changes made to the Sepang International Circuit being a major talking point ahead of this weekend's race, Williams chief technical officer Pat Symonds is curious to know how the track has improved.

A prominent feature on the Formula 1 calendar, the Malaysian Grand Prix is usually raced in April, but due to major renovations it was postponed towards the end of the year.

The track will supposedly improve the racing, something Symonds is keen to witness as it might be a benchmark for other tracks to meet.

"The new date for Malaysia takes us to the first of two circuits that really stretch the car after the confines of Singapore," he said. 

"In Kuala Lumpur we also the challenge of extensive changes that have been made to the track.

"As well as the complete resurfacing of the track there is also some realignment which has been specially designed to improve the racing. It will be interesting to see how successful it is, and if it acts as a pointer to future circuit modifications.

"From a performance point of view, of course, the focus is on the very high temperatures and humidity which not only affect the car set-up but also take a high toll on the drivers.

"There are several high-speed long corners where loading dictates the advantage of the more robust compounds. The circuit has good overtaking opportunities and we can expect an exciting race but, as always in Malaysia, we will be keeping a very close watch for the heavy rainfall that can disrupt this event."