The Sepang International Circuit is the venue used for the Formula One Malaysian Grand Prix; however, it is also used for many other major motorsport events.
The venue is widely regarded as the standard setter for all other Grand Prix venues with palatial pit and press complexes, and spectacular grandstands. Some are now complaining though, as the track appears to be slowly sinking, apparently due to the fact that it was built on the site of a former swamp.
It was designed, in common with other new facilities in Shanghai and Bahrain, by German designer Hermann Tilke.
Main circuit
The main circuit, normally raced in a clockwise direction, is 5.54 kilometres long and is noted for its sweeping corners and wide straights. The layout is quite unusual, with a very long back straight separated from the pit straight by just one very tight hairpin. It is used for Formula One and MotoGP events, in addition to local and regional racing.
North circuit
Also raced in a clockwise direction, the north circuit is basically the first half of the main circuit. The course turns back towards the pit straight after turn 6 and is 2.71 kilometres long.
South circuit
The south circuit is the other half of the racecourse. The back straight of the main circuit becomes the pit straight when the south circuit is in use, and joins onto turn 8 of the main circuit to form a hairpin turn. Also run clockwise, this circuit is 2.61 kilometres in length.
Other facilities
Sepang International Circuit also has kart racing and motocross facilities.
External links
- Sepang International Circuit http://www.malaysiangp.com.my
Last updated: 05-03-2005 17:50:55
