Kuala lumpur: The carnival and associated programmes for the Formula 1 (F1) Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 at Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will extend their reach to Putrajaya, aiming to engage a larger audience and stimulate local businesses.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari highlighted that the expanded approach would allow more people to partake in the F1 excitement due to Putrajaya's accessibility and the potential to attract a larger visitor base. Dr Taufiq noted that several carnivals, including concerts, would take place not only at SIC but also across Putrajaya, enabling greater public participation.

Dr Taufiq further revealed that the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) is joining forces with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) to offer trading spaces for local vendors. These opportunities aim to support students, veterans, and small-scale traders beyond a two-kilometre radius from SIC. He stated that designated sales booths would be available around Sepang, with additional spaces provided in collaboration with KUSKOP.

He clarified that within the SIC radius, business spaces would be limited to booths approved by the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). Preparations for the event are advancing well, with repair and upgrading works at the circuit scheduled to commence on September 7, 2026.

The announcement followed Dr Taufiq's inauguration of the Circuit Dash KBS x SIC Run 2026, which saw participation from over 7,000 individuals, offering them a unique chance to experience the circuit before its temporary closure for improvements.