KUALA LUMPUR (July 26): Malaysia is ready to welcome Formula 1 (F1) back to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) after a nine-year absence to stage the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (GP) from Oct 2 to 4, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Sunday.
He said Malaysia is honoured to support Bahrain, Formula 1 and the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in hosting the race, describing it as a testament to the strong friendship and mutual trust between Malaysia and Bahrain.
Anwar said he had the opportunity to speak with Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa, the crown prince and prime minister of Bahrain, as well as F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali on the collaboration.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to His Royal Highness, as well as the government and people of Bahrain, for the trust and confidence they have placed in Malaysia. We are honoured to support the kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at SIC this year.
“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 in a post on his social media platforms.
Anwar added that Malaysia is looking forward to showcasing its world-class infrastructure, operational excellence and warm hospitality, while further strengthening the bonds between the two nations through this special occasion.
F1 and FIA on Sunday announced that the two bodies, together with the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, have reached an agreement to stage the 2026 Bahrain GP at the SIC, held between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races.
The Bahrain GP was originally scheduled to be held at the Bahrain International Circuit in April, before being postponed to October dates due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
“Sepang is one of F1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather, making it an ideal venue to host this round of the championship,” according to a statement from F1 and FIA.
Meanwhile, Prince Salman said the hosting of the race at Sepang was made possible with the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and reflected the close and brotherly ties between the two nations.
He said the arrangement would provide F1 fans around the world with a memorable experience while underscoring Bahrain’s enduring commitment and passion for the sport.
“I am proud to join Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in announcing that Bahrain will host the GP at the SIC. This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport.
“Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for F1, and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved,” he said in the same statement.
The SIC hosted the Malaysian GP from 1999 to 2017 before the race was dropped from the F1 calendar due to rising hosting costs and sanctioning fees.
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