Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali has praised the successful staging of the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, describing the ability to organise the event within just two months as an extraordinary achievement.
Domenicali credited the close partnership between the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for successfully bringing the atmosphere and identity of the Bahrain Grand Prix to Sepang. He also acknowledged the commitment of Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa in making the unusual arrangement possible.
The race also marked Formula 1’s return to Malaysia and Sepang for the first time in almost a decade. Domenicali highlighted the enthusiastic response from Malaysian motorsport fans, saying their passion contributed significantly to the atmosphere throughout the race weekend.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem similarly praised Malaysia and Bahrain for successfully delivering the Grand Prix at short notice. BIC CEO Shaikh Salman Isa Al Khalifa said the event successfully showcased Bahrain’s culture and hospitality to fans in the region, while demonstrating what could be achieved through strong international cooperation.
SIC Chairman Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz said the successful event reflected two months of intensive collaboration between BIC and SIC, supported by both governments and other stakeholders. The historic race was described as a demonstration of teamwork, shared vision and the strong partnership between Malaysia and Bahrain.
