bahrainthismonth.com | OCTOBER 2026 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX 14 From Sakhir to Sepang The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix travels to Malaysia this month, turning an unusual change of venue into a celebration of friendship between two nations. From October 2-4, the Sepang International Circuit will stage the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Bahrain’s race name and identity will travel to a circuit that has been absent from the Formula 1 calendar since 2017. The original April event in Sakhir could not go ahead because of the regional situation, until agreement involving both governments, Formula 1 and the FIA has kept the Grand Prix on the 2026 calendar. For fans, Sepang promises a different kind of Bahrain race weekend. The 5.543km circuit combines long straights with sweeping corners and heavy braking zones, while tropical heat and sudden rain can upset even the most carefully prepared strategy. Max Verstappen won the last Formula 1 race there in 2017. This time, the current generation of cars will take on the Malaysian venue under the Bahrain Grand Prix banner. A Shared Occasion Malaysia’s Ambassador to Bahrain, H.E. Dato’ Shazryll Zahiran, sees the event as an expression of a relationship that reaches beyond sport. He says: “Malaysia is honoured and thrilled to host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Under the visionary leadership and fraternal friendship of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, this historic collaboration stands as a powerful testament to the deep ties and trust shared between our two nations. “I am immensely excited to witness this moment first-hand, especially as it coincides with Gulf Air launching direct flights between Manama and Kuala Lumpur on September 29. This direct link creates a true win-win partnership for both countries, generating significant economic energy, unlocking tourism and bringing our people closer than ever. “With 90-day visa-free entry for Bahraini citizens, I warmly welcome all motorsport fans, families and travellers from Bahrain to join us in Sepang for an extraordinary race weekend and an unforgettable experience in Malaysia.”
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