The FIA has set the start time for the rebranded 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. It will now take place at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit. The event is scheduled for Sunday 4 October 2026. It will revive a track steeped in Formula One history. After the original race in Bahrain was abandoned in March. It was due to regional instability. The decision was made to shift the race to a new location. The location must offer safety and logistical viability.
Conflict leads to venue shift
The initial plans for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Sakhir were scrapped in March after rising tensions made it impossible for Formula One to hold the event safely. Following discussions between the sport’s governing body, the FIA, and the respective governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, the race was relocated to Southeast Asia. The move reflects the combined efforts to ensure the safety of staff, teams, and fans while keeping the season on track.
A return to a classic F1 venue
The Sepang International Circuit is no stranger to Formula One fans. From 1999 to 2017, the Malaysian Grand Prix was a regular fixture on the calendar. The track became the first purpose-built venue in Southeast Asia. It staged a World Championship race. The circuit was famous for its demanding layout. It was also known for intense heat and erratic weather patterns. These led to some of the sport’s most dramatic moments. The race will return after a nine-year absence. It will rekindle the excitement of a long-held F1 tradition.
The race on 4 October will begin at 3PM local time in Malaysia. This schedule will be inconvenient for European audiences. Fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland will need to wake up early. The race starts at 8AM their local time. Those in Central Europe can catch the event from 9AM. While the time difference poses a challenge. The race remains a highlight in the 2026 season. Teams and fans are eager to see how this iconic circuit will perform. They are looking at the current F1 grid.