PUTRAJAYA August 5, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Michael Roche, Executive Director of the Singapore Grand Prix, on Wednesday to exchange insights on best practices for hosting a world-class Formula 1 event.
The meeting focused on preparations for the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which will be held at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026. Malaysia is hosting the race after the original Bahrain event was relocated due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
In a social media post, Anwar said the discussion aimed to draw on Singapore’s experience to ensure the event at Sepang is organised to the highest standards. He expressed confidence that the race would generate substantial economic benefits through increased tourism, job creation, business opportunities and stronger investor confidence, while supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
“Insya-Allah, we are committed to ensuring this organisation not only meets international standards, but also strengthens Malaysia’s position as a regional motorsport hub and brings wide-ranging benefits to the people and the national economy,” Anwar stated.
Formula 1 and the FIA confirmed in late July that Sepang would stage the Bahrain Grand Prix under a special arrangement between the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia. The event marks Malaysia’s return to the Formula 1 calendar for the first time since 2017.
Organisers expect strong turnout, building on the more than 110,000 spectators who attended the last Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017. The race forms part of a triple-header with the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.
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