Formula 1 fans in Malaysia, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for. After a nine-year absence, Formula 1 is officially returning to Sepang — but with an interesting twist.
The upcoming race will be the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026, taking place at the iconic Sepang International Circuit from 2 to 4 October 2026. This marks the first time in F1 history that a Grand Prix has been relocated to another country after being cancelled.
Why Is the Bahrain Grand Prix Moving to Malaysia?
The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally scheduled to take place in Bahrain earlier this season. However, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East led to the cancellation of the race.
Rather than losing the Bahrain Grand Prix from the 2026 calendar altogether, Formula 1, the FIA, Bahrain and Malaysia reached an agreement to bring the race to Sepang. This allows the championship round to go ahead while giving fans another chance to experience Formula 1 action at one of the sport’s most memorable circuits.
For Malaysia, it is an exciting homecoming.
Sepang previously hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 until 2017 and has always been known for its challenging track layout, passionate fans and unpredictable tropical weather. The circuit features 15 corners, eight straights and a 5.543km track, making it a serious test for both drivers and teams.
And yes, that means we could potentially get the classic Sepang combination: scorching heat, sudden rain and cars flying around the circuit at full speed. What’s not to love?
When and Where Is the Race?
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 will take place at:
Venue: Sepang International Circuit, Selangor
Date: 2–4 October 2026
Race: Sunday, 4 October 2026
The weekend will feature practice sessions, qualifying and the main race. According to the current F1 schedule, Practice 1 and Practice 2 take place on Friday, Practice 3 and qualifying on Saturday, followed by the main race on Sunday.
The race is also expected to bring back the electric atmosphere that Sepang is famous for, with thousands of motorsport fans making their way to the circuit to watch the world’s best drivers battle it out.
And if you’re planning to attend all three days, there’s another important question to consider: Where are you going to stay?
Looking for a Place to Stay During F1 Weekend?
With the race weekend expected to attract fans from Malaysia and overseas, finding accommodation that makes getting to and from Sepang easier can make a huge difference.
Instead of worrying about driving, parking and navigating the traffic around the circuit, why not look for a hotel package that takes care of some of the logistics for you?
That’s where M World Hotel comes in with its F1 Race Weekend Escape package.
Located in Bandar Utama, M World Hotel has put together a race-weekend package designed for F1 fans who want a comfortable stay while having transportation to Sepang taken care of.
The F1 Race Weekend Escape at M World Hotel
The package is available for bookings until 4 October 2026, with the stay period from 2 to 5 October 2026 — perfect if you want to make a full weekend out of your F1 experience.
And there’s a little extra incentive for those who book early.
🏁 Pole Position Privilege
The first five bookings will receive an upgrade to a Studio Suite.
So if you’re already planning to attend the race, being early could literally put you in pole position.
The Winning Formula: RM1,429 nett per night
The package includes:
- Comfortable Deluxe Room stay with breakfast buffet for 2 persons
- Daily round-trip transportation to Sepang International Circuit
- RM100 daily dining credit
- Welcome minibar and fruit basket
- 24-hour stay, subject to availability
- 20% off dining at Indulge, Infinity Grill and Lobby Lounge
The daily transportation to Sepang is particularly useful for a race weekend. Instead of figuring out your own route and dealing with the logistics of getting to the circuit, you can simply make use of the hotel’s round-trip transport.
And after spending the day surrounded by roaring engines, cheering crowds and all the F1 excitement, you can return to the hotel, enjoy your dining credit and recharge for the next day.
Make It a Full F1 Weekend
Whether you’re a hardcore F1 fan who follows every qualifying session or simply someone who wants to experience the excitement of Formula 1 live at Sepang, this is a pretty special opportunity.
Malaysia hasn’t hosted an F1 race since 2017, so having the championship return to Sepang — even as the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix — makes the 2026 event one worth experiencing.
If you’re planning to attend, don’t leave your accommodation until the last minute. With the race taking place from 2–4 October, this is one weekend where planning ahead could make the whole experience much smoother.
So, pack your F1 cap, charge your camera and get ready for some serious full-throttle action at Sepang.
For more information about the F1 Race Weekend Escape at M World Hotel, including booking details and package terms, check out the hotel’s official website.
Terms and conditions apply. The hotel reserves the right to amend rates and package inclusions without prior notice. Limited daily availability. Prepayment is non-refundable and will be forfeited in the event of cancellation or amendment. Other terms and conditions apply.
