Gabriel Bortoleto was stunned by the extreme heat at Sepang during FP1 for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, describing the temperatures as the most intense he has ever experienced. The combination of high temperatures and humidity immediately underlined how physically demanding Formula 1’s return to the Malaysian circuit is likely to be.
The Audi driver is competing at Sepang in Formula 1 for the first time and quickly discovered just how severe the conditions can become at the Malaysian venue.
Gabriel Bortoleto stunned by Sepang heat in FP1
While driving during the opening practice session, Gabriel Bortoleto delivered a striking assessment of the conditions over team radio.
“This is the craziest situation I’ve ever experienced in my life in terms of temperatures. Even worse than Bahrain in FP1.”
The reaction offered an immediate indication of the challenge facing the drivers throughout the weekend. Sepang has long been known for its combination of heat and high humidity, two factors that significantly increase the physical demands placed on drivers inside the cockpit.
The climatic conditions are therefore set to be one of the defining elements of the Malaysian weekend, alongside the sporting challenge posed by Formula 1’s return to the Sepang International Circuit.
FIA activates Heat Hazard protocol at Sepang
The FIA has declared a Heat Hazard for the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend in Malaysia, activating the protocol designed for particularly demanding high-temperature conditions.
As part of those measures, the Driver Cooling System must be present on the cars. The system was developed to help drivers manage thermal stress during especially hot Formula 1 events.
The decision reflects the severity of the conditions expected at Sepang, where heat and humidity can combine to make cockpit temperatures particularly demanding over longer runs.
Bortoleto faces first Formula 1 weekend at Sepang
Gabriel Bortoleto had already discussed the climate before the start of the weekend, explaining that he was prepared for his first Formula 1 racing experience at Sepang.
After only his opening laps of the circuit in FP1, however, the Brazilian provided an even clearer indication over team radio of just how significant the heat could become for the drivers.
Managing those conditions will remain a central part of the weekend as practice continues and Formula 1 prepares for qualifying and the race. The full 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang schedule and circuit guide provides the session times and key information for the Malaysian event.
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