2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia: Complete Sepang Travel Guide
The 2026 Formula One season has delivered one of the most unusual calendar changes in modern F1 history.
Because of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Formula 1 and the FIA confirmed that the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will not be held in Bahrain. Instead, the race will take place at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia from October 2–4, 2026, while officially retaining the name Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
For Formula 1 fans, this creates a unique opportunity to experience one of the sport’s most iconic circuits for the first time since 2017.
This guide covers everything you need to know before booking your trip.
Why Isn’t the Bahrain Grand Prix Being Held in Bahrain?
Originally scheduled for Bahrain, the event was cancelled because of the security situation and regional conflict in the Middle East.
Rather than removing the Grand Prix entirely, Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia agreed to move the event to Malaysia while preserving the Bahrain Grand Prix on the championship calendar.
This means fans will watch:
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
A very unusual but historic solution.
Event Schedule
Friday — October 2
- Practice 1
- Practice 2
Saturday — October 3
- Practice 3
- Qualifying
Sunday — October 4
- Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix Race
Official session times will be confirmed closer to the event.
About Sepang International Circuit
Sepang is considered one of Formula 1’s greatest modern circuits.
Circuit facts:
- Location: Sepang, Malaysia
- Near Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
- Opened in 1999
- Famous for high-speed corners
- Heavy braking zones
- Tropical weather
- Frequent afternoon rain
Many legendary drivers—including Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen—have won at Sepang over the years.
How to Buy Tickets
At the time of writing, ticket sales have not yet opened.
Formula 1 and the Bahrain International Circuit have confirmed that ticket information will be announced soon.
When sales begin, the safest places to purchase are:
- Official Formula 1 Tickets
- Bahrain International Circuit
- Sepang International Circuit
Avoid unofficial resale websites unless they are authorized.
Best Grandstands
Main Grandstand
Perfect for:
- Race start
- Pit stops
- Finish line
- Podium ceremony
Turn 1 Grandstand
Great for:
- Overtaking
- Heavy braking
- Opening lap action
Turn 15 Grandstand
Ideal for:
- Final corner
- Cars accelerating onto the main straight
General Admission
Excellent value for fans who enjoy moving around the circuit.
Sepang has several elevated grassy viewing areas with wide sightlines.
How to Get to Sepang Circuit
One of Sepang’s biggest advantages is its location.
From Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA):
- Grab: approximately 15–20 minutes
- Taxi: approximately 15–20 minutes
From Kuala Lumpur city centre:
- Grab or taxi: approximately 45–60 minutes depending on traffic
- KLIA Transit to KLIA, then Grab to the circuit
Compared with many Formula 1 venues, Sepang is relatively easy to access.
Where to Stay
Option 1 — KLIA Hotels
Best for:
- Convenience
- Early departures
- Short travel time to the circuit
Option 2 — Sepang Hotels
Best for:
- Budget travellers
- Walking distance or short taxi ride
Option 3 — Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Best for:
- Nightlife
- Shopping
- Food
- Tourism
Many international visitors choose Kuala Lumpur and travel to the circuit each race day.
Weather in October
October is warm and humid in Malaysia.
Typical conditions:
- Temperature: 28–33°C
- High humidity
- Frequent afternoon showers
Bring:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Portable fan
- Rain poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes
Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
If you’re visiting for several days, consider exploring:
- Petronas Twin Towers
- Batu Caves
- KL Tower
- Bukit Bintang
- Jalan Alor Food Street
- Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
The city is only about an hour from Sepang, making it easy to combine Formula 1 with sightseeing.
Travel Tips
Before travelling:
- Check Malaysian entry requirements
- Download Grab for transport
- Carry a power bank
- Arrive early on race day
- Stay hydrated in the tropical heat
Key Takeaways
- The Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at Sepang, Malaysia, on October 2–4, 2026.
- The race keeps its Bahrain Grand Prix name despite moving venues.
- Tickets have not yet gone on sale and will be announced officially.
- Sepang offers one of Formula 1’s most exciting circuits.
- Kuala Lumpur makes an excellent base for international visitors.
FAQ
Why is the Bahrain Grand Prix being held in Malaysia?
Because Bahrain could not host the race due to regional security concerns. Formula 1 relocated the event to Sepang while retaining the Bahrain Grand Prix title.
When is the race?
October 2–4, 2026.
Are tickets available?
Not yet. Official ticket sales will be announced by Formula 1 and the Bahrain International Circuit.
Which grandstand is best?
The Main Grandstand is the best all-around choice, while Turn 1 is ideal for overtaking action.