Malaysia missing from the calendar in 2018

The possibility of seeing the Malaysian Grand Prix, organized since 1999 in Sepang, from the calendar F1 had emerged last year, after statements from several government officials.

Although the contract seemed to run until 2018, F1 officials confirmed this Friday on the sidelines of the Chinese Grand Prix that the Malaysian Grand Prix would be organized for the last time at Sepang on October 1.

“It is always sad to say goodbye to a member of the Formula 1 family, said Sean Bratches, Formula 1's general manager of commercial operations, since the takeover by Liberty Media. For almost two decades, Formula 1 fans in Malaysia have proven to be some of the most passionate fans.

As we said in Melbourne, we have big plans to bring our fan base closer to the sport than ever before, delivering an enhanced digital experience and creating new events. We look forward to talking about these plans as the season progresses. »

Sean Bratches also indicated that the future calendar should include 21 Grands Prix, with the return of the French and German Grands Prix.

Ferrari tops the charts in Malaysia

With seven victories since 1999, including three for Michael Schumacher, Ferrari remains the most victorious team at Sepang, but on the drivers' side Sebastian Vettel monopolizes the top of the list with four victories, three with Red Bull Racing, and one with Ferrari in 2015.

Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull) won the event last year, marked by the abandonment of Lewis Hamilton on a mechanical breakdown. The pilot Mercedes had thus lost big against his rival Nico Rosberg in the optics of the world crown.