Sebastian Vettel with his team Inifiniti Red Bull at the Sepang International Circuit.

SEPANG: Motorheads who want to catch their favourite F1 drivers in action can head to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to see them free of charge during practice sessions.

Both entry and parking will be free today at the circuit, which will host the 2013 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix this weekend.

The two F1 practice sessions would be at 10am and 2pm. There would also be similar sessions for several support races.

SIC CEO Datuk Razlan Razali said it was a not-to-be missed opportunity for motor sports fans, especially those living near the area.

Tension at the paddock has already started building up with team preparations in full swing for the race.

Besides the numerous meetings with the press by drivers, photographers and TV crew were seen waiting to catch their money shots, including that of current world champion Red Bull Racing's Sebastian Vettel.

Chief operations officer Sharmila Nadarajah said one highlight would be the display of Petronas F1 cars that have raced every year since 1999 and a booth by Tourism Malaysia showcasing the many cultures of Malaysia.

“It has been a phenomenal 15 years and we are honoured to still be hosting the event,” she said.

The five-year refurbishment of SIC is into its second year now.

“We are adding a roof at the paddock area so people can watch the race from the rooftop,” she said, adding that it would be ready in time for this year's MotoGP.

There will also be additional public toilets and surau.

Sharmila said complaints about dirty chairs at the grandstand would be addressed in a novel way this year - wet wipes would be provided for customer service staff or spectators to clean the seats.

Several performances have been lined up, including reverse bungee, wall climbing, magic shows, clowns and performances by street artists.

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