Announced yesterday by F1’s official Instagram page as well as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, it is official that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit this year.
Anwar said he had spoken with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, as well as Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, and expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s trust in Malaysia.
“This collaboration is more than the staging of a world-class sporting event. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, while reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness and capability to host major international events,” he said.
Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world are set to witness Sepang flaunting its infrastructure, operational excellence and hospitality while strengthening ties between both nations. The race will be officially named the “Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia” and will be held from Oct 2-4.
In mid-March, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix that were originally scheduled for April were postponed on grounds of the war in the Middle East, reducing this season’s calendar from 24 to 22 races.
SIC hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before it was removed from the calendar due to rising hosting costs and licensing fees.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said Malaysia’s hosting of the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang reflects strong international cooperation and the country’s important place in F1 history, while Domenicali said Malaysia’s hosting of the event demonstrated the sport’s ability to adapt while bringing fans back to one of its most iconic circuits.
Making its debut as an F1 venue in 1999, Sepang stands as one of Formula 1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather.
Information regarding the release of tickets for the event will be announced soon.
