The hosting of the Formula 1 Bahrain Gulf Air Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit (SIC) in October is expected to deliver medium and long-term economic benefits for Malaysia through increased tourist arrivals, global exposure and potential investment opportunities, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said Malaysia could still gain economically from the event despite Bahrain covering the organising costs, as the race is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide while reinforcing SIC’s position as a world-class motorsport venue.
“Although we know the expenditure is large, it is covered by Bahrain. The economic impact is not only seen through inbound tourists, but also through media coverage and the event’s global reach because its audience and viewership are in the billions,” Ahmad Zahid said.
He added that the event would help maximise the use of SIC’s facilities, which have remained underutilised apart from major events such as MotoGP.
Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia could potentially bring back its own Formula 1 race in the future with stronger government support and private sector sponsorship through a smart partnership model.
“For MotoGP, for example, the Cabinet, following the Prime Minister’s direction, decided that it should not only be funded by the Youth and Sports Ministry through allocations from the Ministry of Finance, but should involve development projects, sponsorship and joint organisation through a smart partnership approach,” he said.
Formula 1 and the International Automobile Federation (FIA) recently confirmed that Malaysia will host the Bahrain GP at SIC from 2 to 4 October 2026, subject to final agreements and official approvals. The race will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix in the F1 calendar.
