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Montoya Tips Verstappen and Antonelli for Successful Sepang Return
Formula 1 returns to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia this year, and according to former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya, Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli are poised to benefit.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-07-27T09:32:43.000Z - 2 min read
The Formula 1 circus will soon travel back to the iconic Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. This return marks a significant development on the calendar after the previously scheduled Bahrain Grand Prix had to be cancelled. The cancellation in April was a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Malaysian circuit, beloved by drivers and fans alike, will host the replacement event. The race weekend is scheduled for the dates of 2 to 4, making it a welcome addition to the racing schedule. With this, Sepang regains a spot on the prestigious Formula 1 calendar after several years.
The announcement of Sepang's return has already sparked widespread speculation over which drivers will excel most on the challenging circuit. One of the most prominent voices to speak out on the matter is former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya. The Colombian, known for his outspoken opinions, has put forward two specific names.
According to Montoya, four-time world champion Max Verstappen and current championship leader Kimi Antonelli stand to gain the most from Sepang's characteristics. Both drivers possess traits that match the technical and physical demands of the Malaysian track exceptionally well. In the eyes of the former Grand Prix winner, this makes them the clear favorites.
The views of the experienced Montoya are often received with great interest in the paddock, given his deep knowledge of the sport and experience driving on various types of circuits. He foresees that Verstappen, with his unprecedented speed and adaptability, and Antonelli, who is already impressing this season, can maximize their talents on the Malaysian asphalt.
The return to Sepang thus promises to be a fascinating contest where the performances of Verstappen and Antonelli will be closely monitored. The circuit is renowned for its combination of high-speed straights and challenging corners, demanding a comprehensive set of driver skills. All eyes will be on this promising race weekend.
Whether Montoya's prediction comes true remains to be seen when the engines roar in Malaysia. What is certain is that the Formula 1 world is looking forward to reuniting with Sepang and the potentially spectacular race ahead. It represents an opportunity for both established names and upcoming talent to display their class.