The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix is set to return to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking the first time since 2017 that the venue will host a Formula 1® race weekend. Scheduled for the weekend of October 2-4, this event will be the 16th round of the 2026 Formula 1® season, bringing together top teams and drivers for a challenging race in a demanding environment.
The race weekend timetable places the first practice session (FP1) on Friday, October 2, starting at 12:30 local time, followed by the second practice (FP2) at 16:00. On Saturday, October 3, the third practice (FP3) will begin at 12:30, with qualifying scheduled for 16:00. The main race is set for Sunday, October 4, at 15:00 local time. These timings reflect the local Malaysian timezone, which fans should consider when planning to watch the sessions live.
The Sepang International Circuit offers a mix of fast-flowing corners and long straights, presenting a unique test for drivers and teams. The expected warm and humid weather, with possible rain showers and thunderstorms, will add to the physical and strategic challenges throughout the weekend. Drivers like George Russell and Kimi Antonelli from Mercedes, Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing, as well as Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, are among those preparing to tackle these conditions. Russell recently secured a win in Azerbaijan and is narrowing the gap to Antonelli in the drivers’ standings, while Verstappen aims to claim his first victory of the season after a close finish in Baku.
For fans wanting to follow the action, live coverage will be available through F1 TV Pro and F1 TV Premium, offering multi-language commentary and streaming in 4K Ultra HD/HDR. Additionally, live timing and session updates can be accessed via the official Formula 1® website and the F1 app. This ensures that viewers around the world can stay connected to every lap and key moment of the race weekend.
The rescheduling of the Bahrain Grand Prix to the Sepang International Circuit came after an earlier postponement this year. This change places the event as round 16 in the 2026 calendar, providing a fresh setting for teams to compete in the latter stages of the season. The return to Sepang is notable for its combination of technical demands and challenging climate, factors that often influence car setup and driver endurance.
As the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix approaches, the focus remains on how teams adapt to the circuit’s characteristics and weather conditions. The race weekend schedule offers a clear framework for fans and participants alike, with multiple opportunities to observe practice sessions, qualifying, and the race itself. The availability of high-quality live broadcasts and timing tools supports an informed and engaging viewing experience for the global Formula 1® audience.