Esteban Gutierrez does not expect the resurfaced Sepang International Circuit to pose many problems this weekend, with the Mexican expecting the grip levels to be higher than before as a result.
The Haas F1 Team driver expects another tough and physical race on the back in Malaysia this weekend on the back of the Singapore Grand Prix two weeks ago, but expects a slightly easier experience at Sepang due to the more flowing nature of the circuit.
“We’ve experienced new tracks before like Baku, and Budapest and Austria as well, which were completely resurfaced,” said Gutierrez. “Now comes Malaysia, so I don’t expect it to be too complicated.
“It’s always nice to have change in the track, so I’m really keen to get to know it. Hopefully the grip is going to be very high, because when the grip is high, it’s much more fun to drive.
“It’s a physical race, but not more than Singapore. Actually, I believe that Singapore is the most demanding, physically. Malaysia is obviously very, very hot because it all happens in the heat of the day, but because the track is more flowing, it’s not as demanding as Singapore.
“Malaysia is a different track. Still demanding, but more flowing. That’s always been the case and even with all the changes, I don’t expect it to be too different. Its flowing and fast corners are what make the difference, and that’s a characteristic of the Malaysian Grand Prix.”
Gutierrez is hopeful to be able to finally take his first points of the season in Malaysia, and heads into the weekend in a confident frame of mind.
“We arrive for the weekend with the right mindset – a clear mind in order to get the most of every opportunity that comes up in the weekend,” said Gutierrez.
