Key Highlights:
- Formula 1 has returned to Sepang International Circuit for the first time in nine years.
- Local supporters from ‘Team GR63, Malaysia’ presented Mercedes driver George Russell with a massive handmade scrapbook filled with fan messages, drawings, and photos.
- The emotional gesture gave Russell a morale boost amid Mercedes’ struggles with tyre degradation and intense track heat during Friday practice sessions.
George Russell Presented with Massive Fan Scrapbook at Sepang Return
As Formula 1 makes its return to the Sepang International Circuit for the first time in nine years, Mercedes driver George Russell received an extraordinary welcome from local motorsport enthusiasts. In a video shared across Mercedes’ official social media channels, Russell was shown reacting to a blue scrapbook so substantial in size that it appeared fit for a library shelf. The special keepsake was created and delivered by a dedicated Malaysian supporters group operating under the name ‘Team GR63, Malaysia’.
The behind-the-scenes footage captured the initial handover outside the team garages, where fans wearing matching turquoise Mercedes caps met the British driver. Russell responded on the spot with, Oh, wow. Thank you,
before the video transitioned to the team motorhome, where he took time to examine the thoughtful gift in detail.
Inside the Handmade Tribute from ‘Team GR63, Malaysia’
While seated inside the Mercedes hospitality area, Russell paged through the blue folder, which was packed with personalized fan art, printed notes, photographs, and handwritten letters. Addressing the camera, the driver remarked, This is a book I’ve received from Team GR63, Malaysia,
as he absorbed the extensive collection put together by the fan club.
Flipping through the pages left the Mercedes driver visibly moved by the time and effort invested by the local community. Reflecting on the project, Russell said: And we’ve got so many fan messages on here, so it’s… it’s incredible. This has all been handmade. There’s written notes, some things on computer, drawings. It’s very sweet. It’s really surreal. It’s really surreal and… yeah, I don’t… bit lost for words, to be honest.
He further marveled at the sheer volume of the binder, adding, Look at the size of this book. It’s incredible. It’s absolutely incredible.
Why This Matters
The emotional reception highlights the enduring passion of Malaysian Formula 1 fans after nearly a decade without the sport at Sepang. For Mercedes, Malaysia holds strong commercial and historic ties, making the venue an important stop on the calendar. On the track, the weekend began with notable challenges; Mercedes grappled with significant tyre degradation during Friday’s opening practice sessions, FP1 and FP2, as team engineers worked to counter the demanding tropical heat. The enthusiastic support from local fans has provided Russell with a welcomed emotional boost ahead of crucial track running on Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Formula 1 last race at Sepang International Circuit?
Formula 1’s appearance at Sepang International Circuit marks the championship’s first visit to the Malaysian venue in nine years.
Who created the scrapbook presented to George Russell?
The scrapbook was assembled and hand-delivered by a dedicated local fan community known as ‘Team GR63, Malaysia’.
What challenges did Mercedes face during Friday practice in Malaysia?
Mercedes encountered severe tyre degradation throughout the FP1 and FP2 practice sessions while navigating the challenging track heat at Sepang.
