For the first time since 2023, the Bahrain Grand Prix will be staged on the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, according to a confirmed schedule released by Team‑BHP. The race is slated for 2‑4 October 2026, a move that will bring a new blend of high‑speed straights and tight corners to the Bahrain‑favourite event.
Sky Sports’ F1 feature, hosted by former driver Anthony Davidson, gives a detailed walk‑through of Lewis Hamilton’s 2017 pole lap around Sepang. Davidson explains how the 5.543‑km circuit’s 14‑corner layout, with its long DRS zone on the main straight and the challenging 90‑degree turn 7, demands both outright pace and precision braking. He also highlights the circuit’s notorious heat, which can push tyre temperatures to the upper limits of the Pirelli range, a factor that teams will need to manage carefully during the race weekend.
From a technical perspective, the move to Sepang will test the aerodynamic balance of the cars. The long straight offers a prime location for high‑downforce setups, while the tight, twisty sections favour cars with strong mechanical grip. Teams will need to find a compromise that allows them to extract the most speed on the straight without sacrificing handling in the corners.
For Indian fans, the 2026 Bahrain GP will be available on FanCode from 7 pm IST on the race day. The new venue also means a different fan experience, with the possibility of attending the event in Malaysia’s vibrant capital, Kuala Lumpur, or enjoying the race from home with the enhanced commentary and studio coverage that FanCode offers. The change also opens up the chance for Indian drivers to compete on a circuit that has already seen the likes of Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel showcase their skill.
Source: Sky Sports, Team‑BHP
