Sepang to stage 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix as Malaysia returns to the Formula 1 calendar
The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be staged at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit from October 2-4, with the country officially confirmed to join the Formula 1 calendar as host of the event. The 5.543km circuit, which opened in 1999 and quickly became one of the sport's most recognisable modern venues, will welcome F1 back for Practice 1 and Practice 2 on Friday, October 2, Practice 3 and Qualifying on Saturday, October 3, and the 56-lap race on Sunday, October 4.
Race weekend schedule
- Friday, October 2: Practice 1 and Practice 2
- Saturday, October 3: Practice 3 and Qualifying
- Sunday, October 4: Race - 56 laps, 310.398km
A venue born from Malaysia's 1990s boom
The idea for the Sepang International Circuit was born during Malaysia's rapid development in the 1990s, when then-Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad looked to create a world-class motorsport venue as part of the country's drive towards industrialisation. Construction began in 1997, with renowned circuit designer Hermann Tilke tasked with creating the track.
The 5.543km circuit officially opened in 1999 and quickly became one of Formula 1's most recognisable modern venues, setting the template for many of the purpose-built tracks that followed.
A dramatic first Grand Prix in 1999
The inaugural Malaysian Grand Prix took place in 1999, marking F1's first visit to Sepang. The event was memorable not only because it introduced a spectacular new circuit to the calendar, but also because it saw Michael Schumacher return from injury to help Ferrari team mate Eddie Irvine in his championship bid.
Ferrari dominated the weekend, with Irvine ultimately victorious as Sepang immediately established itself as both a fan and driver favourite.
A complete test for the drivers
Sepang is among the most complete tests in Formula 1. The wide layout combines long straights, heavy-braking zones and a variety of fast, flowing corners, allowing drivers to attack from multiple racing lines. The venue is renowned for its heat and humidity, and sudden tropical downpours can transform conditions in an instant.
Standout sections include the long sweep through Turns 5 and 6, and the unique final hairpin of Turn 15 that leads onto the main straight.
Why Sepang delivers the drama
Sepang has a reputation for delivering unpredictable and exciting races. The combination of challenging weather, excellent overtaking opportunities and a circuit layout that rewards driver commitment has produced countless memorable moments over the years.
Away from the track, visitors can enjoy Malaysia's vibrant culture, world-class cuisine and easy access to Kuala Lumpur, while the circuit's proximity to Kuala Lumpur International Airport makes it one of the most convenient destinations on the F1 calendar.
Where to watch
If you want the best all-round view, the Main Grandstand is tough to beat. Its distinctive palm-inspired canopy provides welcome shade while offering excellent views of the pit straight, the final corner and the opening sequence of turns.
Alternatively, grandstands around the final hairpin are perfect for watching late-braking overtaking moves before the cars blast down the main straight. Thanks to Sepang's wide track and open sightlines, spectators can enjoy action across multiple sections of the circuit from many vantage points.
Circuit at a glance
- Circuit length: 5.543km
- First Grand Prix: 1999
- Number of laps: 56
- Race distance: 310.398km
- Fastest lap: 1:34.080 - Sebastian Vettel (2017)
Around the paddock
Tickets for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia have already gone on sale, while Franco Colapinto will serve a five-place grid drop for the race. Fans can also test their knowledge with a new quiz on Formula 1 history at the Sepang International Circuit, and the F1 Fantasy Strategist has cast his eye over the run of races through Baku, Sepang and Singapore.