F1 – Team Lotus Demo Run : Putrajaya
Ahead of upcoming next weekend Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix, Team Lotus put up a street show for its huge Malaysian fan base. It was a delightful event, full of crowds coming to get a glimpse of the new T128 and the drivers. Jarno Trulli, Alexander Rossi and Heikki Kovailainen had the opportunity to be the first to blast an F1 car through the streets of Putrajaya. I begin to wonder, if there is a remote chance of Malaysia having a street circuit, one place sprung to mind. It is certain that it would be Putrajaya.
Heikki Kovailainen roars the street of Putrajaya. In the backdrop is Prime Minister’s building.
The majestic city of Putrajaya would be an amazing venue for a F1 race, at least that is what I thought.
Dato’ Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Youth and Sports is entertained by Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes during a pit garage tour session.
Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir, chairman of Sepang International circuit having a chat with Dato’ Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
Heiki Kovailainen and Jarno Trulli during an autograph signing session. The crowd was huge, taking the opportunity to meet and talk with their favorite drivers. Below image sums up the popularity of Lotus brand in Malaysia.
Race Simulator try out for the fans. I swear I want to try it badly, but it was not appropriate as I was carrying camera equipments all around me.
Pit garage area was the center of attraction. The T128 is prepared for the subsequent demo run here. It was nice that the organizers allowed fans to enter this area and get closer to the action. But for me, it meant fighting for places to get the image I wanted. But it doesn’t bother me at all, at the end of the day it is a fun event. No pressure, no pushing, the crew was terrific and cheerful.
Besides the F1 demo run, there were some motorbike stunts too.
The crowd is witnessing history in the making, T128 is the first F1 car to run in Putrajaya.
The first Malaysian F1 driver Alex Yoong. He is now preparing aspiring young Malaysian F1 driver for the big day.
Alexander Rossi is busy answering questions from the Lotus Media. Bookmark their youtube pages, I’m sure they are making a video on this event.
One of the beautiful structures of Putrajaya.
This is another, the Palace of Justice.
Another view of Putrajaya’s scenic urban landscape.
This man has a Midas touch. It is well known fact in Malaysia.
Jarno Trulli careers in F1 spans years. Minardi, Prost, Jordan, Renault, Toyota and Lotus.
They brought two T128 here, one for the demo run and one for public viewing.
Jarno listens to Dato’ Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
A fan taking pictures of the T128.
Lotus knowing that the brand has huge followers here, must be feeling the pressure to bring the T128 to any points finish positions next weekend.
Editorial : Mu’az Zakaria
love the pics buddy! thanks!
Beautiful pictures.. love all d pictures..