There are two variables in the mix for this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang Circuit; firstly, the new slot in September can bring different weather conditions into play and secondly, the track has been resurfaced. Last year Sebastian #Vettel won here for the Scuderia Ferrari, so a new track surface may offer even more uncertainty. MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS can clinch its third consecutive constructors’ title if they score 36 points or more, regardless of how Red Bull Racing perform. Pirelli Motorsport has introduced the harder tire for this race and that will suit the Mercedes chassis, but they did struggle with the high temperatures last year. – James Allen on F1

Formula one teams have welcomed the move by US firm Liberty Media to purchase the sport’s commercial arm for $8bn.

Liberty Media has recently bought nearly 19 percent of the F1 group, and will raise its stake to more than 35 percent by next year.

Al Jazeera’s Florence Looi reports from Singapore.