Verstappen expecting another 'weight-losing' weekend in Sepang

Max Verstappen believes the Malaysian Grand Prix will once again challenge everyone's fitness as drivers race in another hot and humid environment after Singapore.

Through no fault of his own, the Red Bull driver's results have fallen short of expectations this year as he battled reliability issues and circumstances.

Formula 1's last visit to Sepang will hopefully provide the Dutchman with a clean and competitive race.

"Last year we had a one-two in Malaysia," remembers Verstappen.

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"Daniel and I had a good wheel-to-wheel battle, we gave each other just enough room which provided some good action for the crowd and a great result for the team.

"Both Singapore and Malaysia are very hot and humid races, being one after the other means you can at least tailor your training for those conditions, but it will still be physically tough.

"It’s also challenging for the pit crew in their overalls, they get very hot and I’m sure they also lose a few kilos over the weekend!"

Last year's race saw a Red Bull Racing 1-2 triumph with Ricciardo edging out his team mate to take his fourth Grand Prix win.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.