Sepang:Nine years after his memorable victory at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is back at the venue for the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The circuit holds a special place for Verstappen as it was the site of the second victory of his career.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Verstappen expressed a sense of unfamiliarity upon his return, noting that the long absence made even the paddock surroundings seem new. In a press conference, he admitted, "I walked into the paddock, and I had no idea where I had to go, so it's been a long time."

Despite the need to reacquaint himself with the circuit, Verstappen highlighted the challenging nature of Sepang as a reason for its enjoyment. He appreciated the track layout, which provided a demanding race experience due to high degradation and the generally hot conditions.

Looking back on his last race at Sepang, Verstappen recalled his 2017 victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix, where he delivered a commanding performance for Red Bull Racing, finishing in a time of 1:30:01.290. In that race, Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton followed 12.770 seconds later in second place, while Verstappen's Red Bull teammate at the time, Daniel Ricciardo, completed the podium in third, 22.519 seconds behind.