Rapid KL revises F1 shuttle arrangements after complaints

Rapid KL has revised its passenger pick-up and drop-off arrangements at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) following complaints about its shuttle services at the venue on the opening day of the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix yesterday.

In a statement today, Rapid KL said the changes were made together with SIC and the relevant agencies, and took effect today to ensure smoother and more orderly passenger movement.

It said its shuttle bus services yesterday had operated as planned and in accordance with operational arrangements agreed upon with the event organiser.

“Following the feedback received, Rapid KL, together with SIC and the relevant agencies, has improved the arrangements for passenger pick-up and drop-off locations.

“Traffic flow and passenger movement are smooth and under control as of 11am today,” it said.

Rapid KL said it would continue monitoring the situation to ensure smooth passenger movement and a better experience for those attending the Formula One event.

It said overall traffic coordination to and from SIC, as well as vehicle flow at passenger pick-up and drop-off areas, was jointly coordinated with the event organiser and relevant agencies.

Yesterday, FMT reported that motor racing fans had taken to social media to complain of long queues for shuttle buses, poor crowd management and difficulty getting drinking water at SIC.

Some spectators also claimed they had waited hours for buses after Friday’s practice sessions, with netizens describing chaotic queues and people walking along the highway emergency lane while waiting for transport.

Separately, SIC acknowledged the challenges fans faced and said it was working closely with its transport partners and relevant authorities to strengthen traffic, shuttle and crowd management arrangements.

“The experience and safety of our fans remain our highest priority at SIC. We thank all fans for their patience and cooperation and look forward to welcoming everyone for an enjoyable and safe day at SIC,” it said in a statement.

Bernama reported that several fans today took to social media to highlight smoother queues, dedicated lanes for shuttle buses and a stronger presence of staff, marshals and police to manage crowds and traffic.

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