In Cars, Local News, Motorsports / By Chris Aaron / 12 April 2016 3:32 pm / 9 comments

Ongoing work to repair and improve the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) which began on February 15, 2016, are well on track for the circuit’s reopening on May 8, this year. The circuit’s operators have announced that the project is “moving swiftly with more than 50% of the major work already completed.”

“The track work is our priority, while ensuring that each step of the way meets stringent global standards,” said SIC chief Datuk Razlan Razali. “We are also racing against the clock to meet the deadline ahead of the 2016 FIM Superbike World Championship Malaysian Round which will be held at SIC from May 13 to 15.”

The entire 5.543 km SIC circuit is currently being resurfaced, with repairs led by Jarno Zafelli, circuit designer head of Italian design firm, Dromo. It is said that the upgrading works will also improve drivability at most of the circuit’s corners.

Interestingly, the press statement claims that the new final corner at SIC will “make a major impact to the track” and offer drivers and riders a brand new and challenging experience. Other areas being upgraded include the circuit’s drainage system, kerbs, run-off areas and shortcut roads.

“We are trying not only to meet, but get the track ready ahead of the May 8 promise,” said Razlan. “(We want) to ensure that we can start preparations for WorldSBK (early), which is the first big race to burn rubber on the new and improved track. We want Malaysians to come and support our local hero, Fahmi, as well as witness the reopening of the track.”