Sepang:Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was amazed by the vibrant atmosphere at the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 at the Sepang International Circuit.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ferrari driver, who secured the second position for the upcoming race, described the crowd as the largest he has witnessed at the iconic Malaysian circuit. Hamilton expressed his gratitude to the Malaysian fans for their enthusiastic welcome.

Hamilton, aged 41, achieved a lap time of 1 minute 35.428 seconds, narrowly trailing behind Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing, who took pole position with a time of 135.130. Hamilton, who claimed his first title with Ferrari earlier in the year, noted the challenging hot conditions impacting drivers, cars, and mechanics.

The British driver highlighted the extensive efforts by his team to optimize the car's setup during practice sessions, which ultimately allowed him to close the gap to Verstappen. He credited a final adjustment before qualifying as crucial in enhancing the car's performance.

In July, it was confirmed that Malaysia would host the Gulf Air Bahrain GP from October 2 to 4, following an agreement with F1, the FIA, and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain. This agreement reinstated the Bahrain GP on the 2026 F1 calendar after its earlier cancellation due to geopolitical tensions. Malaysia had previously hosted the Malaysian GP from 1999 to 2017.