Sepang:Formula 1 enthusiasts are thrilled with the return of the sport to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) after a nine-year hiatus, coinciding with the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026. The event offers fans a unique experience by blending Bahraini and Malaysian cultures.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Emna Ben Salem from Tunisia, attending her first-ever F1 Grand Prix, expressed her excitement about witnessing the cultural fusion at the event. She described the experience as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, appreciating the mix of Bahraini and Malay cultures alongside the return of F1 to Malaysia since 2017.

Ankush Sharma from India also attended the race, driven by the allure of experiencing the iconic Sepang circuit. Despite originally planning to visit Baku, Sharma was enticed by the announcement of F1's return to Malaysia, spending around USD2,000 on the trip. He praised Sepang as one of the most attractive circuits, hoping it remains on the F1 calendar.

Locals Abdul Azim Azlan and his wife, Nur El Syifa Mohd Shafik, were also eager to seize the opportunity to attend the event. For Abdul Azim, a long-time F1 fan, the Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang was a chance to witness live racing for the first time. They also enjoyed the Bahrain-themed cultural activities, which offered a glimpse into traditional crafts and local flavors.

The Bahrain Grand Prix is taking place at SIC from October 2 to 4, following an agreement by Formula 1, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain. This agreement kept the Bahrain Grand Prix on the 2026 F1 calendar after its earlier cancellation due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Malaysia last hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix at SIC from 1999 to 2017.