20/04/2010
NEWS STORY
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In the run up to the Malaysian GP, a number of drivers and team bosses remarked that Sepang is getting a little shabby and needs a lick of paint. Consequently, organizers are looking at a £36m overhaul of the circuit and its facilities.
While F1 fans look forward with relish to Montreal, Silverstone, Monza, Spa and even Monaco, most as old or older than the Formula One World Championship itself, it would appear that after just twelve years, the Herman Tilke designed circuit needs an overhaul.
Though fans would argue that it is the quality of the racing that is all-important, the powers that be are concerned that the Malaysian track is beginning to show its age.
"It's starting to get a little shabby and looks a bit tired," said Bernie Ecclestone recently, a criticism with which British fans will be fully familiar since it is exactly what the F1 supremo previously said of Silverstone.
"There is rubbish all over the place and it's not really a good sign for Malaysia," he added, claiming that, much like he said of Silverstone, "it's like an old house that needs a bit of redecorating."
Consequently, though the race still fails to pull in the fans, especially the locals, circuit boss Razlan Razali says plans are in place for a £36m overhaul, providing the money can be found.
"Unfortunately after three to four years, the track was not very well maintained," Razali told AFP. "There are areas of the grandstand and the paddock where it leaks during a storm. We experience power trips and mechanical and electrical woes. We need a major overhaul and refurbishment."
Indeed, according to Razali, the iconic roof inspired by the hibiscus, the national flower of Malaysia, needs to be replaced as it has "outlived its life span".
"The flat roof above the paddock is also leaking," he said. "We are fighting a losing battle to repair the leaks, we need to bring back Sepang's glory days."
Asked about the cost, he replied: "I hope we can secure about 180 million ringgit over the next five years from the government to carry out a major overhaul and refurbishment.
"Our track needs to be on par with Bahrain and Shanghai," he continued. "I am not afraid of Malaysia losing Formula One spectators. I am more concerned about providing better hospitality services and how to generate additional revenue.
"Drivers and riders are presently housed behind the paddock building in temporary marquees. We need to upgrade. We are quite far behind the new circuits. We are seeking investors. We are open to joint-venture partners."
As fans and those F1 insiders more concerned with the show, as opposed to the venues, look ahead, fearing that the European season will produce further Bahrain-style processions, Razlan's comments are a sad indication of the direction the sport is taking. His comment about not being afraid of "losing Formula One spectators" and being "more concerned about providing better hospitality services and generating additional revenue" are a sad reflection on contemporary F1.
As for the leaks and power trips (no pun intended), perhaps the organizers should have followed Dubai's example and employed Indians as opposed to cowboys.