George Russell says he is looking forward to racing at Malaysia's Sepang circuit, a track he remembers driving virtually long before getting the opportunity to compete there in Formula One.
Russell arrives following his victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku.
The October 4 race was originally scheduled to take place in Bahrain but has been relocated to Sepang amid tensions in the Middle East.
Sepang last hosted Formula One in 2017 and remains one of the sport's most recognizable circuits.
Russell has never raced a Formula One car at the track, although he told reporters that it was one of his favorite circuits when he played racing games as a child.
Only 10 of the current 22 Formula One drivers have previously raced at Sepang.
Weather could become another major factor. Malaysia is known for rapidly changing conditions and intense rainfall, which could make the race especially challenging.
Mercedes enters the weekend in a strong championship position, but Sepang's combination of heat, high speed corners and unpredictable weather could create one of the most demanding races of the season.
