This weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix marks the return of McLaren's Fernando Alonso to Formula 1 after missing the season opener in Australia due to concussion suffered in pre-season.

But he is returning to a McLaren team in dire straits. So how long will the famously driven double world champion's patience last in what looks like a season of difficulty.

Thomas Maher of Formula Spy.com joined us on Newstalk's Inside F1 to preview this weekend's race, but also to discuss the issues affecting the rest of the grid.

Also up for discussion was the private battle at the front between Mercedes pair Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, and whether the latter has any hope of turning the tables on his reigning world champion team-mate.

Thomas also gave us an insight into the "civil war" between Red Bull and their engine manufacturer.

Listen to the full Malaysian Grand Prix preview via the podcast player: