*** From Sakhir to Sepang | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

From Sakhir to Sepang

HRH Crown Prince and Prime Minister praises Bahraini talent as 22nd Grand Prix reaches Sepang

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain's Formula 1 story has crossed borders, with the Kingdom's 2026 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix taking centre stage at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit and showcasing Bahraini talent, culture and organisational expertise to a global audience.

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, arrived in Malaysia yesterday ahead of the race, marking the 22nd edition of Bahrain's Grand Prix and another milestone in the Kingdom's motorsport journey.

article-image

Upon arrival, HRH was received by HH Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Temenggong of Johor; HH Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Panglima of Johor; and HH Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Putera of Johor, along with senior Malaysian officials, Bahraini ministers and officials.

The race is being hosted by Malaysia with the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, reflecting the close bilateral ties between the two countries. Formula 1 and the FIA confirmed that Sepang would host the Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2 to 4, preserving the race on the 2026 calendar.

article-image

Later, at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit, HRH met the Bahraini organisers behind the event and praised the national workforce, saying the people of Bahrain remain the Kingdom's greatest asset.

HRH said Bahrainis working abroad reflect the competence and commitment that advance His Majesty's vision, and commended their dedication in demonstrating the depth of Bahraini talent on the international stage.

His Royal Highness was also briefed on accompanying initiatives, including Bahrain Village, which showcases the Kingdom's tourism, culture and heritage to an international audience. The village is part of a wider programme bringing Bahraini cultural experiences to fans at Sepang.

article-image

The visit concluded with HRH meeting Bahraini marshals and organisers working on the ground and praising their role in delivering the event to the highest international standards.

The Bahrain Motor Federation later said the presence of the Crown Prince reflected his sustained encouragement of national talent on the world stage.

The Malaysian-hosted event also represents the return of Formula 1 to Sepang after a nine-year absence.