SEPANG: Mercedes driver George Russell and Red Bull's Max Verstappen found the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) a demanding challenge during today's opening two free practice sessions, with soaring temperatures and heavy tyre degradation making it difficult to find the right set-up for this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
Formula 1 returned to the iconic circuit for the first time in nine years, since the 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix, with the heat and ageing tarmac taking a toll on both drivers and tyres.
Russell, making his first appearance at Sepang, admitted Mercedes had yet to find the right balance, while Verstappen said Red Bull still had plenty to work on despite topping the opening practice session.
