“And the Malaysian Grand Prix is GO!” With these words, started the 2007 Malaysian GP, or if we call it what Lewis Hamilton does, the “hardest race” of his career. Where drivers pushed their limits both physically and mentally, Lewis Hamilton recently opened up about what he considers the most grueling race of his illustrious career. The race left a memorable mark on the seven-time World Champion due to its intensity and the challenges it presented.

Etched in Hamilton’s memory, the 2007 Malaysian GP stood out not only for its demanding circuit but also for the adverse conditions that tested the mettle of every driver on the track. As the rain had plagued practice and qualifying sessions, the race day dawned with a dry track, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.

“It was the hardest race, I think,” Hamilton reflected, his voice tinged with nostalgia. Recollecting the vivid memories of that pivotal moment, he shared, “My first race here in 2007, I lost—I think it was 4 1/2 kg or something like that, might be more.” The enormity of the physical toll he endured becomes apparent as he further describes, “I could barely stand up; it was killer. It is such a difficult circuit. I do miss racing here.”

The first lap alone was a rollercoaster of action. Fernando Alonso, displaying his prowess, managed to seize the lead from polesitter Felipe Massa by executing a skillful maneuver into the first corner. Hamilton himself exhibited his driving finesse by overtaking Kimi Räikkönen, then outmaneuvering Massa to claim second place. Massa, eager to challenge Hamilton, engaged in a gripping battle during the early laps. His attempts to pass Hamilton at turn four were fraught with tension, culminating in a brief but pivotal moment where he momentarily overtook Hamilton but slid wide onto the grass, losing ground.

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As the checkered flag waved, Alonso emerged victorious, showcasing his prowess in a commanding win. Hamilton held on to second place, showcasing both his tenacity and skill.

Why was the Malaysian GP removed from the F1 calendar? Will it make a comeback?

The return of the Malaysian Grand Prix to Formula 1 seems increasingly unlikely, as recent comments by Sepang International Circuit CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif suggest. The Grand Prix, which left the F1 calendar after the 2017 event, retains its FIA Grade 1 certification but faces challenges in its potential return.

Azhan Shafriman emphasized a broader perspective, stating that Formula 1’s benefits should extend beyond the circuit itself to branding, employment, and more for Malaysia. The pandemic recovery takes precedence over hosting a Grand Prix.

With F1 eyeing growth in the American market and focusing on the Middle East, the absence of the Malaysian event implies a diminishing role. The primary reasons for the Grand Prix’s absence lie in high costs, declining F1 attendance, and strong competition. While fans await its return, the Sepang International Circuit appears currently focused elsewhere.

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