SEPANG Oct 5, 2026 – Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has thanked Bahrain for entrusting Malaysia and the Sepang International Circuit with hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026, describing the event as a success that strengthened ties between the two countries.
In a statement posted on Monday, Anwar credited close cooperation between Sepang International Circuit and Bahrain International Circuit, together with the commitment of organising teams, for enabling the race to proceed. He saluted staff working behind the scenes—from bus drivers and security personnel to volunteers, traders and cleaning crews—and thanked F1 fans from around the world, especially Malaysians who welcomed guests with warmth and courtesy. “You have shown Malaysia’s friendly, open face and rich in the spirit of goodwill,” he wrote, adding: “Hopefully, we will meet again in Sepang. Insya-Allah!”
The race, held from 2 to 4 October at Sepang, was the first Formula 1 event at the circuit since 2017. It retained the Bahrain Grand Prix name after the original April date at the Bahrain International Circuit was removed from the calendar amid regional geopolitical tensions. An agreement between Formula 1, the FIA and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia relocated the round to Malaysia while preserving Bahrain’s place on the 23-race 2026 schedule. Gulf Air remained title sponsor and staged a ceremonial fly-past.
Max Verstappen converted pole position into victory in a rain-delayed race, securing his and Red Bull’s first win of the season ahead of Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton. The King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim, Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and other dignitaries attended. Anwar has separately said Malaysia incurred only minor costs for circuit improvements and that attendance exceeded a quarter of a million people.
About The Author
