On 23rd-25th March, Kuala Lumpur hosted, for the 14th time, the Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix. Overseas visitors to the event stay an average six days in the country and spend an average of €1,714. Tourism Malaysia invited Irish Travel Trade News Editor Michael Flood to this year’s F1.
There is something about a city that hosts a Formula One race – it is as if the city takes on a new dimension, and the metropolis of Kuala Lumpur is no exception to this rule. The city opens up and really becomes Formula One Central, with many events such as open-air concerts and a spectacular fireworks display in the shadow of the iconic Petronas towers.
The Formula 1 race, which had six World Champions lined up on the grid, is Malaysia’s biggest international sporting event and this year attracted more than 90,000 spectators to the Sepang International Circuit, which is located adjacent to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
This event has gone from strength to strength each year and, coupled with the excellent infrastructure and facilities that the city has to offer, it is certain to continue be a unique Grand Prix on the F1 racing calendar.
After nine laps the rains came down, necessitating a 51-minute suspension of the race. On resumption the crowds were treated to some really exciting driving, culminating in team Scuderia Ferrari taking the chequered flag as Fernando Alonso from Spain claimed victory once again.
