KBS and SIC are committed to delivering a world-class F1 Gulf Air Bahrain GP at Sepang in 2026, says minister.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) are committed to ensuring that the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, scheduled from Oct 2 to 4, meets the highest F1 standards, says Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari.
In a statement, Dr Mohammed Taufiq said detailed discussions on the collaboration were held between the Malaysian Government, the Bahrain Government and F1 after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and KBS received early notification regarding the hosting of the race at SIC. He said the hosting was expected to strengthen the country’s motorsport ecosystem, enhance Malaysia’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events, and stimulate economic growth through sports tourism.
“KBS welcomes and supports the official announcement by Formula 1 regarding the hosting of the 2026 F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at SIC,” he said.
“KBS extends its appreciation to His Majesty the King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim, and conveys its highest appreciation to the King of Bahrain, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, for the close ties and trust between the two countries.”
Dr Mohammed Taufiq also appreciated the close relationship between Prime Minister Anwar and Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa, which played an important role in realising the hosting.
Earlier, F1 announced that Malaysia would host the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at SIC, marking the first time in F1 history that a race has been relocated to another country following its cancellation. The Bahrain GP was cancelled due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The event, subject to final agreement and official approval including from the World Motor Sport Council, will be known as the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
SIC hosted the Malaysian GP from 1999 to 2017 before the race was dropped from the F1 calendar due to rising hosting costs and licensing fees.
“Sepang International Circuit has an excellent track record as a Formula 1 host for 19 years, and this occasion will certainly satisfy motorsport fans who have been longing for F1 action,” Dr Mohammed Taufiq said.
