Tag: Sepang International Circuit

Sepang International Circuit Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Key Highlights
- The Sepang International Circuit will host its first Formula 1 Grand Prix since 2017 after Malaysia stepped in to replace Bahrain’s original April slot.
- Sepang’s 5.543-kilometre layout features fast corners, heavy braking zones, four Straight Mode zones and one Overtake Mode detection point.
- High humidity, extreme heat and sudden downpours could create a major challenge for drivers and teams.
Malaysia Returns to the Formula 1 Calendar at Sepang

Following an eventful race in Azerbaijan, where George Russell narrowly defeated Max Verstappen, Formula 1 moves directly to the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The event will take place at the Sepang International Circuit after Bahrain’s race was removed from its original April calendar slot and Malaysia stepped in to host it during the first weekend of October.

The Malaysian Grand Prix will mark Formula 1’s first visit to Sepang since 2017. However, Malaysia’s connection with Formula 1 began in the 1990s, when then-Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad initiated the development of a first-rate motorsport venue.

Designed by renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke, Sepang began construction in 1997 and staged its inaugural Grand Prix in 1999. Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine won that first race, helping establish Sepang as a fast and demanding circuit and setting a model for other purpose-built Formula 1 venues.

What Makes the Sepang International Circuit Challenging?

Only 10 drivers on the current Formula 1 grid have previously competed in Malaysia, and their most recent experience came almost a decade ago. Those drivers may hold an advantage over their younger rivals, but the long absence means the entire field is likely to face a steep learning curve.

Former Renault F1 driver Jolyon Palmer described Sepang as a circuit that combines high-speed flow with demanding braking zones:

“Sepang is a brilliantly flowing lap, with a fast middle sector splintering big braking zones with plenty of switchback opportunity.

“Turn 1 is extremely wide and it’s important to attack the brakes before getting back to hug a late apex to get nicely out of the tighter Turn 2 and up the following curved straight.”The middle sector is all about high-speed balance and flow. A committed entry is needed on the entry for the incredibly high-speed run through 5 before picking your change of direction perfectly into 6 as the track drops away slightly. This is the highest speed cornering section on the circuit. Turn 7 is a bit slower and easy to run wide on the exit before the final part of that sequence which should be an acceleration zone if executed right.

“Braking for both Turns 11 and 14 are tricky and all about feel as you are coaxing the car through right hand bends on approach, especially for 14 where it’s easy to lock the right front. Again, the exit of this corner is critical, leading into the final big stamp on the brakes and an overtaking chance at the final turn.”

The Sepang layout includes a wide first turn, a high-speed middle sector and several heavy braking areas. Drivers must manage changes of direction, corner exits and traction throughout the lap, with the final turn providing an important overtaking opportunity.

The circuit’s difficulty is increased by its unpredictable climate. High humidity, extreme heat and sudden downpours have all affected previous races in Malaysia, creating additional demands for car setup, tyre management and driver concentration.

Sepang Straight Mode Zones and Overtake Detection

Under the current regulations, Straight Mode is an aerodynamic configuration that reduces drag and allows cars to accelerate more efficiently toward top speed. The rear wing opens to create a gap, as it did under the former Drag Reduction System, while the uppermost elements of the front wing also move down at the same time as the rear wing’s top element.

Straight Mode is used on every lap in dry conditions wherever it has been designated. Cars switch between configurations according to their position on the circuit, using maximum downforce through corners and reduced drag on the straights.

There are four Straight Mode zones at the Sepang International Circuit. They are located on the start-finish straight, between Turns 3 and 4, between Turns 8 and 9, and between Turns 14 and 15.

Overtake Mode replaces DRS and functions as a new power mode. It enables a driver to recharge more electrical energy and access an additional electrical power profile, allowing the car to maintain a higher speed for longer.

There is one Overtake Mode detection point per lap. It is expected to be positioned on the exit of the final corner, leading onto a long straight. Drivers can use Overtake Mode on the following lap if they are within one second of the car ahead at the detection point.

At Sepang, the Overtake Detection marker is located as drivers exit Turn 15. The Overtake Activation line follows at the beginning of the start-finish straight.

Why This Matters

Malaysia’s return to the Formula 1 calendar brings the championship back to a circuit with a distinctive combination of high-speed corners, long straights, technical braking zones and difficult weather conditions. Although 10 current drivers have raced at Sepang before, their limited recent experience means teams will need to gather data quickly and adapt to a circuit that has not featured in Formula 1 competition since 2017.

The four Straight Mode zones and the single Overtake Mode detection point will also make aerodynamic efficiency, energy deployment and positioning important factors during the race. Weather changes could further influence how teams approach the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the last Formula 1 race at Sepang?

The last Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit was held in 2017. The Malaysian Grand Prix returns to the venue after that absence.

How many Straight Mode zones are there at Sepang?

There are four Straight Mode zones: on the start-finish straight, between Turns 3 and 4, between Turns 8 and 9, and between Turns 14 and 15.

Where is the Overtake Mode detection point?

The Overtake Detection marker is located as drivers exit Turn 15. The activation line is at the beginning of the start-finish straight.
09/30/2026
2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia: What Is the Weather Forecast?
Key Highlights:
- Sepang International Circuit is set to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, marking F1’s return to the venue after nine years.
- Rain is possible throughout the weekend, with precipitation chances of 50% on Friday, 40% on Saturday and 30% on Sunday.
- High humidity, heat and track temperatures of up to 53.85°C could create significant tyre and strategy challenges.
2026 Bahrain Grand Prix weather forecast

The next round of the 2026 Formula 1 season will take teams and drivers to Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, which has stepped up to host the Bahrain Grand Prix. The event will mark F1’s return to the venue after nine years, with weather conditions expected to play an important role across practice, qualifying and the race.

Sepang is known for unpredictable weather, and sudden downpours have influenced previous events by forcing teams to change their strategies at short notice. Drivers may again face a demanding combination of wet conditions, high temperatures and a slippery track, while humidity could add to the physical challenge of the weekend.

Friday, October 2: FP1 and FP2

Hot and humid conditions are expected in Sepang for the opening two practice sessions. Temperatures are forecast to range from 23°C to a high of 32°C, while the heat index could reach 37°C. There is a 50% chance of precipitation, meaning rain could affect the event.

Winds are expected to remain light to moderate, averaging 5.4 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 21.6 km/h. Track temperatures may climb to 53.85°C, potentially placing additional pressure on tyre performance during both practice sessions.
- Maximum temperature: 32°C
- Minimum temperature: 23°C
- Chance of rain: 50%
Saturday, October 3: FP3 and qualifying

Final practice and qualifying are expected to take place in warm and humid conditions. Temperatures are forecast to range from 23.5°C to 31.5°C, with a heat index of 36.07°C. Humidity could reach 86%, increasing the impact of the heat on drivers and teams.

There is a 40% chance of rain on Saturday. Wind speeds are expected to vary between 4.3 and 10.8 km/h, with gusts reaching 27 km/h. Track temperatures could rise to 53.32°C, which may affect tyre performance and qualifying preparation.
- Maximum temperature expected: 32°C
- Minimum temperature expected: 24°C
- Chance of rain: 40%
Sunday, October 4: Race-day forecast

Race day is expected to remain warm and humid, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 31°C. Temperatures could fall to a minimum of 23.5°C at night, while the heat index may feel close to 35°C.

The chance of rain is forecast at 30% for the Bahrain Grand Prix. Winds should remain light, averaging around 5.4 km/h, although occasional gusts could reach 21.6 km/h. Track temperatures may reach up to 46°C, presenting another challenge for drivers and tyres during the race.
- Maximum temperature expected: 31°C
- Minimum temperature expected: 24°C
- Chance of rain: 30%
Why This Matters

The weather forecast could have a direct effect on team strategy at Sepang International Circuit. Rain may require rapid decisions on tyre selection and setup, while high humidity and heat can make conditions more demanding for drivers. Elevated track temperatures, particularly during Friday practice and Saturday qualifying, could also influence tyre performance throughout the weekend.

With the possibility of showers present in every session, teams will need to prepare for changing conditions as F1 returns to Sepang after a nine-year absence. The forecast remains most favorable for dry running on race day, but the 30% rain chance means weather could still become a factor in the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix take place?

The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.

Is rain expected during the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix weekend?

Rain is possible across the weekend. The forecast gives a 50% chance of precipitation on Friday, 40% on Saturday and 30% on Sunday.

How hot could conditions become at Sepang?

Air temperatures could reach 32°C during Friday and Saturday, while track temperatures may rise to 53.85°C on Friday. The Sunday track temperature could reach up to 46°C.
09/30/2026
2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia: What Tyres Will Teams and Drivers Use?
Key Highlights:
- Pirelli has selected the C2, C3 and C4 compounds for the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit.
- Each driver will receive two hard tyres, three medium tyres and eight soft tyres, with intermediate and full wet tyres also available.
- Limited current-generation Formula 1 data and potential thermal degradation will make Friday practice particularly important.
Pirelli confirms Sepang tyre allocation for rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix

Following last weekend’s dramatic race in Azerbaijan, Formula 1 teams and drivers will travel to the Sepang International Circuit for the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix. Pirelli has confirmed that the C2 hard, C3 medium and C4 soft compounds will be available for the event, marking the tyre supplier’s selection for Formula 1’s return to Malaysia after a nine-year absence.

The hard tyre will be marked in white, the medium in yellow and the soft in red. Drivers will have two sets of hard tyres, three sets of mediums and eight sets of softs. The green intermediate and blue full wet tyres will also be available if weather conditions require them.

An additional set of soft tyres has been reserved for drivers who reach Q3 in qualifying. If the race takes place in dry conditions, every driver must use at least two different slick compounds, maintaining the strategic tyre requirement used across Formula 1 events.

Sepang conditions expected to test tyre management

Pirelli expects Sepang to generate medium energy levels through the tyres, with the circuit’s severity considered comparable to Spa-Francorchamps and Shanghai. Ambient and track temperatures are expected to play a significant role in tyre management, while thermal degradation could become one of the defining factors across the weekend.

“It is a track that generates medium energy levels through the tyres, placing it in a severity range comparable to Spa-Francorchamps and Shanghai,” Pirelli’s weekend preview reads. “Ambient and track temperatures will be an important factor in tyre management, making thermal degradation one of the key variables throughout the weekend.

“For the return to Kuala Lumpur, Pirelli has selected the C2, C3 and C4 compounds, designated respectively as hard, medium and soft. This choice is slightly more aggressive than the harder trio that would have represented a more conservative option given the characteristics of the circuit. The objective is to provide teams with a broader strategic range and create conditions in which the time difference between one-stop and two-stop strategies is reduced.”

Sepang has a relatively abrasive surface, with roughness comparable to Bahrain, although the Malaysian circuit retains its own distinctive characteristics. Grip levels are expected to be low on Friday before improving as the track evolves throughout the weekend. Teams will also need to manage temperatures across both axles.

Recent resurfacing adds to teams’ uncertainty

The circuit has undergone several changes in recent years. The section between Turns 6 and 12 was resurfaced in 2023, while further work was completed around Turn 9. However, Pirelli engineers assessed the overall surface characteristics a few weeks ago and found them to remain broadly similar to those recorded in 2017.

“The circuit has undergone several changes in recent years. In 2023, the section between Turns 6 and 12 was resurfaced, with further work carried out in the area around Turn 9. However, the overall characteristics of the surface, as assessed by Pirelli engineers just a few weeks ago, remain very similar to those recorded in 2017.

“More recently, from the beginning of September, additional surface levelling work was carried out to remove irregularities in the asphalt, alongside cleaning operations aimed at improving track conditions ahead of the World Championship event.

Despite the venue’s history, teams will have limited directly relevant data for the current generation of Formula 1 cars. The lack of comparable references means the Friday practice sessions will carry more importance than usual as drivers adapt to a circuit many have experienced only in the simulator.

“Teams will also have to contend with a lack of available data. Despite being a historic venue, no team possesses truly relevant references relating to the current generation of Formula 1 cars.

“As a result, Friday practice sessions will be more important than usual, both for drivers, who will need to familiarise themselves with a circuit that many have only experienced in the simulator, and for teams, which must identify the correct car balance and assess tyre behaviour.”

Why This Matters

The C2, C3 and C4 selection gives teams a broader range of dry-weather tyre strategies at a circuit where abrasion, heat and evolving grip could significantly influence performance. Pirelli’s aim is to reduce the time difference between one-stop and two-stop strategies, potentially giving teams more strategic options during the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix.

With limited data from the current Formula 1 era and recent surface work at Sepang, Friday running will be crucial for establishing car balance, understanding tyre behaviour and determining how quickly the track conditions develop. Further information about Pirelli’s Formula 1 tyres is available at pirelli.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which tyres will Pirelli provide at the Sepang Grand Prix?

Pirelli will provide the C2 hard, C3 medium and C4 soft slick compounds, along with green intermediate and blue full wet tyres for changing conditions.

How many tyres will each Formula 1 driver receive?

Each driver will receive two sets of hard tyres, three sets of medium tyres and eight sets of soft tyres. An extra set of soft tyres is reserved for drivers who reach Q3 in qualifying.

Why will Friday practice be especially important at Sepang?

Teams have little relevant data from the current generation of Formula 1 cars at Sepang. Drivers must reacquaint themselves with the circuit, while teams need to establish the correct car balance and evaluate tyre behaviour.
09/30/2026
How to Stream the 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia on F1 TV Premium
Key Highlights:
- The Bahrain Grand Prix is next on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar and will be held at the Sepang International Circuit.
- F1 TV Pro offers live coverage of every session, onboard cameras from all 22 cars, and Pre-Race and Post-Race Shows.
- F1 TV Premium adds 4K Ultra HD/HDR streaming on up to six devices, plus personalised Multiview on selected devices.
How to Watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix Live

The Bahrain Grand Prix is the next event on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, with the race taking place at the Sepang International Circuit. Fans can follow every stage of the weekend live through F1 TV, including practice, qualifying, the F1 Sprint where applicable, and the Grand Prix.

George Russell enters the event after a standout victory in Azerbaijan. That result helped the Mercedes driver cut his deficit to team mate Kimi Antonelli to 66 points. Antonelli was forced to focus on damage limitation in Azerbaijan after crashing during Qualifying.

F1 TV Pro provides live coverage of every session and includes exclusive features designed to bring viewers closer to the action. Subscribers can access onboard cameras from all 22 drivers’ cars, along with Pre-Race and Post-Race Shows.

F1 TV Streaming Devices and US Coverage

F1 TV Pro can be streamed through Apple TV, Chromecast Generation 2 and later, Android TV, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Roku.

F1 TV is changing in the United States, where Apple, Formula 1’s new Official US Broadcaster, will host F1 TV at no additional cost within its Apple TV subscription. The arrangement is intended to simplify access for US fans and enhance the viewing experience. The F1 TV broadcast team will also primarily lead Apple TV’s English-language coverage, extending its established expertise and insight to a wider American audience.

What F1 TV Premium Includes

F1 TV Premium is the platform’s premier service. It allows viewers to watch races in 4K Ultra HD/HDR on up to six different devices and offers a personalised Multiview feature on selected devices, with 26 different feeds available to choose from.

Subscribers can watch every Formula 1 Grand Prix, F1 Sprint, Qualifying session, and practice session live in 4K Ultra HD/HDR at home. F2, F3, F1 ACADEMY, and Porsche Supercup sessions are also available to watch live on the platform.

Additional F1 TV programming includes in-depth shows such as Tech Talk Retro, which examines iconic car designs from previous eras, and F1 Icons, which explores the compelling stories of legendary drivers from Formula 1’s history.

F1 TV Availability and Subscription Information

F1 TV now supports more payment methods, including AMEX, giving fans in markets where the service is offered more ways to subscribe. For more information on subscribing to F1 TV, fans can click here.

F1 TV Pro and F1 TV Premium are available only in selected locations. Viewers should check the broadcaster information for their area by clicking here. Fans looking for the local Malaysian broadcast schedule can click here to find out when they can watch the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Why This Matters

The expanded F1 TV options give Formula 1 viewers more control over how they follow a race weekend, from standard live session coverage to onboard views, multiple feeds, and 4K Ultra HD/HDR streaming. The addition of Apple’s US broadcasting role also changes how fans in the United States access Formula 1 coverage, while the availability of F2, F3, F1 ACADEMY, and Porsche Supercup sessions broadens the platform beyond the main championship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix be held?

The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at the Sepang International Circuit, according to the source information.

What does F1 TV Pro include?

F1 TV Pro includes live coverage of every session, onboard cameras from all 22 drivers’ cars, and access to Pre-Race and Post-Race Shows. It can be streamed on Apple TV, Chromecast Generation 2 and above, Android TV, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Roku.

What is available with F1 TV Premium?

F1 TV Premium offers live race coverage in 4K Ultra HD/HDR on up to six devices, a personalised Multiview feature with 26 feeds on selected devices, and live coverage of Formula 1, F2, F3, F1 ACADEMY, and Porsche Supercup sessions.
09/30/2026
GALLERY: Mercedes Unveil Special Livery for Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
Key Highlights:
- Mercedes will race the W17 in a special PETRONAS-inspired green and black livery at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
- Formula 1 is returning to Sepang International Circuit for the first time since the track hosted Grands Prix between 1999 and 2017.
- Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed an update package for the Malaysian weekend, targeting “another step forward”.
Mercedes reveals PETRONAS-inspired livery for Sepang return

Mercedes has unveiled a special livery for the W17 ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The design will honour the colours of the team’s title partner, PETRONAS, adding shades of green to the car’s usual black appearance.

The special Mercedes livery will be displayed at Sepang International Circuit, where Formula 1 is set to return after the Malaysian track previously hosted Grands Prix between 1999 and 2017. The event also carries added significance for Mercedes because of its long-standing relationship with PETRONAS.

“This weekend has extra significance for us because of our long-standing relationship with PETRONAS,” said Wolff.”It’s fantastic to see Formula 1 returning to Sepang and we should also recognise the effort that has gone into making this Grand Prix happen. It has required strong collaboration between Malaysia and Bahrain, and that deserves credit.

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff said the team would maintain its competitive focus once the cars begin running at the Sepang International Circuit. He described the venue as a demanding test that places extensive requirements on a Formula 1 car, particularly in hot and challenging conditions.

“Once the cars are on track, though, our focus is on the job ahead. Sepang is a demanding circuit that asks every question of the car.

Sepang’s high-speed corners, traction demands, tyre management requirements and consistently hot conditions will all influence Mercedes’ performance during the weekend. Wolff said the circuit represents one of the most complete tests on the Formula 1 calendar.

“You need performance in the high-speed corners, good traction, strong tyre management and consistency in hot, challenging conditions. It is one of the more complete tests on the calendar.”

Mercedes to introduce update package in Malaysia

Alongside the PETRONAS-themed livery, Mercedes will bring an update package to Malaysia. Wolff said the team hopes the changes will provide “another step forward” as Mercedes seeks to improve its competitiveness at the returning Sepang venue.

“Our focus is on understanding the package quickly, executing the weekend well, and aiming to put ourselves in the fight at the front,” he added.

Why This Matters

Mercedes’ Sepang weekend combines a major commercial partnership showcase with an important technical evaluation. The return of Formula 1 to the Malaysian circuit gives the team a demanding environment in which to assess its latest package across high-speed corners, traction zones and difficult tyre-management conditions. The outcome will depend on how quickly Mercedes understands the updates and how effectively it executes the weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What livery will Mercedes use at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?

Mercedes will use a special W17 design featuring PETRONAS-inspired shades of green alongside the car’s usual black.

Where is Formula 1 returning?

Formula 1 is returning to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, which previously hosted Grands Prix between 1999 and 2017.

What update is Mercedes bringing to Malaysia?

Mercedes will introduce an update package that Toto Wolff said the team hopes will be “another step forward”.
09/30/2026
What Time Is the 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia and How Can You Watch It?
Key Highlights
- The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia takes place at Sepang International Circuit on Sunday, October 4, with the race starting at 1500 local time.
- George Russell reduced Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli’s lead in the drivers’ standings to 66 points after winning in Azerbaijan.
- Fans can watch every session through F1 TV Pro, F1 TV Premium, or follow live timing on F1.com and the F1 app.
2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia: Session Start Times

Formula 1 heads to Sepang this weekend for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, with the event forming the 16th round of the 2026 season. The race will be held on Sunday, October 4, following practice and qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday.

Free Practice 1 begins at 1230 local time on Friday, October 2, followed by Free Practice 2 at 1600. Free Practice 3 starts at 1230 on Saturday, October 3, before Qualifying gets underway at 1600. The Grand Prix itself starts at 1500 on Sunday, October 4.

Fans can consult the global start-time schedule for Sunday’s race to find the corresponding time in their region.

George Russell Leads Mercedes Challenge After Azerbaijan Victory

George Russell produced a dominant performance in Azerbaijan last weekend to claim victory and cut the gap to Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli in the drivers’ standings to 66 points.

The result raises the question of whether Mercedes can secure another win in Malaysia. Max Verstappen will also be seeking his first victory of the 2026 season after narrowly missing out in Baku.

How to Watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia

Live coverage of every session is available through F1 TV Pro in selected countries. The service provides exclusive access to onboard cameras from all 22 drivers’ cars, along with Pre-Race and Post-Race Shows.

F1 TV Pro can be streamed through Apple TV, Chromecast Generation 2 and above, Android TV, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Roku. The service is free of ad breaks and offers commentary in six languages.

F1 TV Premium provides additional viewing features, including 4K Ultra HD/HDR coverage on up to six devices and a personalised Multiview option on selected devices. Multiview offers 26 different feeds to choose from.

Subscribers can watch every F1 Grand Prix, F1 Sprint, Qualifying session, and practice session live in 4K Ultra HD/HDR at home. The platform also carries live F2, F3, F1 ACADEMY, and Porsche Supercup sessions.

Alternatively, live timing will be available throughout every session of the Grand Prix weekend on F1.com and through the F1 app.

Sepang International Circuit Hosts the Malaysian Event

The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia will take place at the Sepang International Circuit, which last hosted a Formula 1 race in 2017. The venue first joined the F1 calendar in 1999.

The event was moved to a new date after this year’s earlier Bahrain Grand Prix was postponed. Sepang will now welcome the championship for the season’s 16th round.

The circuit combines fast, flowing sections with long straights, while its intense heat and high humidity are expected to test the drivers’ fitness. Max Verstappen won the last Formula 1 race held at the Malaysian venue. Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso have also previously finished on the top step there.

Sepang Weather Forecast for the Grand Prix Weekend

Current conditions point to a warm and humid weekend for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, with sunny spells, light winds, and a chance of rain showers.

Sepang is known for high humidity and thunderstorms that can develop quickly and produce heavy rain at short notice, creating a potential additional challenge for teams and drivers across the weekend.

Why This Matters

The Sepang event combines a key championship opportunity with a return to a circuit that has not hosted Formula 1 since 2017. George Russell’s victory in Azerbaijan has tightened the battle with Kimi Antonelli, while Max Verstappen’s continued search for a first win of the season adds another major storyline to the weekend.

The circuit’s long straights, flowing layout, heat, humidity, and risk of sudden thunderstorms could all influence the competitive picture. With the postponed Bahrain event now serving as the 16th round, practice, qualifying, and weather conditions will be important ahead of Sunday’s race.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?

The race starts at 1500 local time on Sunday, October 4, at Sepang International Circuit.

How can fans watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?

Fans can watch live coverage of every session on F1 TV Pro in selected countries or use F1 TV Premium for expanded 4K Ultra HD/HDR and Multiview features. Live timing will also be available on F1.com and the F1 app.

What is the weather expected to be like at Sepang?

The forecast is currently warm and humid, with sunny spells, light winds, and a chance of rain showers. Thunderstorms may develop quickly and bring heavy rain.
09/29/2026