World · Singapore Bureau
Antonelli backs Sepang's challenging surface for 2026 wet-weather testing
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli believes the Malaysian circuit's abrasive track surface could provide valuable data for Formula One teams should wet conditions finally materialize at Sepang this season.
LSN Singapore ·
Sepang's reputation for a demanding racing surface may work in favour of teams seeking to understand their 2026 power units in wet conditions, according to Antonelli ahead of this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix.
The Mercedes driver highlighted the circuit's unique characteristics as a potential advantage, noting that the aggressive asphalt could deliver important insights for teams developing next-generation cars in challenging weather.
Formula One has yet to experience a wet race at Sepang this season, and Antonelli suggested that should rain finally arrive at the Kuala Lumpur facility, the track's abrasive nature would present distinct testing opportunities compared to other venues on the calendar.
The comments reflect ongoing efforts by F1 teams to gather comprehensive data across varying track conditions ahead of the major technical regulation changes planned for 2026. Teams have increasingly prioritized wet-weather performance testing as part of their development programmes.
The Malaysian Grand Prix takes place at a circuit known for its tropical climate and occasional rainfall, presenting teams with the possibility of experiencing the kind of conditions they are actively seeking to better understand.