KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has attributed the successful staging of the just-concluded Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 to the strong commitment of all parties involved.
The Prime Minister said that close cooperation between the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), as well as the organising team, had contributed to the success.
“Salute to everyone who worked tirelessly, from bus drivers, security personnel and volunteers to traders and cleaners.
“Behind the excitement were their hard work and dedication, which deserve our appreciation.
“Thank you to F1 fans from around the world who attended, especially Malaysians who brought the race to life and welcomed our guests with warmth and courtesy,” he said in a Facebook post.
The Prime Minister thanked the Government of Bahrain for placing its trust in Malaysia and the SIC to host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026.
He said the event had also strengthened ties between Malaysia and Bahrain.
Anwar also praised Malaysians for projecting a positive image of the country to visitors.
“You showed the world a Malaysia that is friendly, open and rich in the spirit of goodwill. Hopefully, we will meet again in Sepang,” he said.
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026, held from Oct 2 to 4, marked Formula 1’s return to Sepang after a nine-year absence. The circuit last hosted an F1 race in 2017.
Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen won the Sunday race, with Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver and championship leader Kimi Antonelli finishing second and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari taking third place.
