The spring Asian round begins in Malaysia

Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit will be the stage for the second race of 2009, following just one week after the Australian GP. This is the first race of the year on at a permanent circuit. Every year, this race is fought under blistering temperatures and almost unbearable humidity. As with the Australian GP, this race will start at 5:00 pm local time (3:00 pm local time last year), perhaps offering a bit of relief from the heat. Even so, the drivers can’t expect any breaks from the lateral G–forces they will experience in the many high–speed corners at this course. Being so early in the season, two keys to performing well here will be car reliability and driver stamina. This modern circuit has always featured many exciting overtaking scenes at the end of back straight, but regulations have been revised this year that will encourage even more overtaking, sure to generate wheel–to–wheel excitement in Malaysia. Winning a podium spot in 2005, Panasonic Toyota Racing has never come away from this race without championship points. Look for Jarno to perform exceptionally well, as this circuit is particularly suited to his driving style.