Kuala lumpur: Hosting the Formula One (F1) Bahrain Gulf Air Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this October is expected to generate significant medium- and long-term economic benefits for Malaysia by boosting tourist arrivals, enhancing global visibility, and attracting future investments and world-class sporting events.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that although Bahrain would bear the cost of hosting the race, Malaysia would reap substantial economic gains through increased international exposure and tourism. He emphasized that the race would be watched by millions of viewers worldwide, reinforcing SIC's status as a world-class venue.
Ahmad Zahid highlighted that while Bahrain is covering the substantial costs involved, the economic impact of the event extends beyond tourist arrivals. The race is expected to receive extensive global media coverage, reaching billions of viewers worldwide, which will generate medium- and long-term benefits for the country. He noted that SIC has world-class facilities that have remained underutilized apart from hosting MotoGP.
Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid expressed that the successful staging of the Bahrain F1 race could strengthen Malaysia's bid to host Formula One again in the future, provided there is continued government support and strong corporate sponsorship. He expressed hope that Malaysia would be able to allocate dedicated funding and secure corporate sponsorship to bring Formula One back to the country.
Ahmad Zahid explained that for MotoGP, the Cabinet, following the Prime Minister's directive, decided that the event should not rely solely on allocations from the Ministry of Youth and Sports through the Ministry of Finance. Instead, it should be supported through development projects, sponsorships, and joint organization under a smart partnership approach.
Yesterday, Formula 1 and the International Automobile Federation (FIA) confirmed that Malaysia would host the race at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026, subject to the signing of a final agreement and official approvals, including from the World Motor Sport Council. The race is scheduled to take place between the Azerbaijan GP and the Singapore GP on the F1 calendar.