Bahrain GP in Malaysia Has Fans Begging for Sepang Return

By Danial Martinus • 06 Oct 2026 in News

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Following the wildly entertaining and chaotic Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, where Red Bull driver Max Verstappen cinched first place, fans of the sport have taken to social media to demand (and beg) for Sepang’s permanent return to the F1 calendar.

Sepang’s a massive hit after a nine-year absence

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Race day in Sepang unfolded in typical Malaysian style, with a heavy downpour causing a delayed start, followed by a botched formation lap behind the safety car, as multiple drivers faced software issues that caused their cars to come to a crawl (or complete stop).

When racing officially got underway, the thousands of spectators scattered throughout Sepang International Circuit were reminded why the track is so iconic and well-loved. From wide spaces that give many overtaking opportunities, to the changes in elevation, and the iconic back and start straights, Sepang’s literally got it all.

Add to that the intense heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather, and you’ve got a winning formula as far as purpose-built F1 circuits go.

The track was F1’s first attempt to reach Southeast Asia, and for one weekend a year from 1999 to 2017, it put Malaysia on global TV screens as the pinnacle of motorsport graced its asphalt. Sepang’s triumphant (and chaotic) return to the calendar this year, a one-off instance completely financed by Bahrain, was a resounding success for the most part.

We felt (and heard!) your love all weekend Sepang ❤️ https://t.co/BoYgd6VI30

— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) October 5, 2026

Many would argue its crowd management and shuttle transportation at the end of the day were in desperate need of improvement, with officials from Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) severely underestimating the number of fans it would need to oversee.

Shortcomings aside, the racing that took place over the weekend put Sepang’s old-guard style on display, with many spectators (and even drivers) calling it a “real circuit” as opposed to the boring and claustrophobic street circuits being added to the F1 track roster.

Petition to have Malaysia on the calendar every year till the end of time

— Matt Gallagher (@MattP1Gallagher) October 4, 2026

F1 commentator Matt Gallagher petitioned for Malaysia to be on the F1 calender “every year till the end of time”. While it might seem hyperbolic to the casual viewer, enthusiasts have long regarded SIC as one of the greatest F1 circuits ever built.

It’s ironic, considering the fact that Sepang was unapologetically dismissed in its early days as a boring, subpar track. But the tables have turned, and more and more people are beginning to see its value in F1. Motorsport outlet The Race even has its own proposal to bring Sepang back:

Thoughts? https://t.co/gihiAOHEw4

— The Race (@wearetherace) October 4, 2026

Of course, it’s only satire… or is it?

For now, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has revealed that Malaysia is currently in talks with F1 over bringing the Malaysian Grand Prix back to Sepang. But like all things grand in scale (and money), he cautioned that this would “take time”, considering a multitude of factors.

“We discussed the prospect of reinstating the Malaysian Grand Prix as a permanent fixture on the Formula 1 calendar, thereby fulfilling the long-standing wishes of fans who have been eagerly awaiting its return to Sepang,” Anwar said.

“However, this effort requires time as the race calendar preparation needs to take into account the tight schedule and the existing contract commitments with the host country.”