Formula 1 is returning to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit for the first time in nine years to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, after the race’s originally planned venue fell through.

Ten drivers on the current grid have raced at Sepang before. Fernando Alonso has the strongest record there, with three wins (2005, 2007 and 2012). The Spaniard called the return “a golden ticket,” describing the track as “an incredible circuit, demanding race, temperature, humidity.”

Lewis Hamilton stressed the physical challenge ahead: “It’s going to be one that’s physically massively demanding,” comparing the heat and difficulty to Singapore, albeit held in daylight rather than under lights.

Weather adds another layer of uncertainty – this is 2026’s first real chance of a fully wet race, with no wet sessions recorded through round 16 and forecasts pointing to significant rain at certain points over the weekend. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli added that the track will also pose a serious tyre challenge, with two to three pit stops expected because of heavy degradation.

Source: Formula1.com (https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/why-a-return-to-sepang-is-a-golden-ticket-for-formula-1-drivers.65koMbP1GaLhOtlXJL2Nn6)