Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Michael Roche, Executive Director of the Singapore Grand Prix, on August 5 to discuss best practices for hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which will be held at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026 [1, 2].
The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally scheduled to take place at Bahrain International Circuit in April 2026 but was postponed to October due to geopolitical tensions in the West Asia and Middle East regions [1, 2, 3]. Under a collaboration between Malaysia and Bahrain, the race will now be staged at Sepang, which formerly hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before it was dropped due to rising costs and licensing fees [1, 2, 3].
Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the government's commitment to meet international standards for the event. He said, "God willing, we are committed to ensuring that this event not only meets international standards but also strengthens Malaysia's position as a regional motorsports hub and delivers wide-ranging benefits to the people and the national economy" [1].
The event is anticipated to generate significant economic benefits including increased tourism, job creation, and heightened business activity. It will also support the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign aimed at boosting the country's tourism sector [1, 2, 3].
Malay Mail reported on August 6 that the meeting between Anwar and Roche took place the previous day, confirming the details discussed [3].
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit is scheduled to run from October 2 through October 4, 2026 [1, 2, 3].
