Why is Malaysia hosting the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix?
Round 16 takes place at the Sepang circuit in Kuala Lumpur, returning to the calendar after a nine-year absence
The Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix is being held at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia this weekend, marking a return of the popular circuit to the sport after a nine-year absence. After the April race in Bahrain's capital Sakhir was cancelled due to regional unrest, the Gulf country opted to pay the hosting fees for their name to be attached to the return of the Sepang circuit for the first time since 2017.
The 3.4-mile track previously hosted F1 races from 1999 to 2017 before it withdrew due to inability to meet the required hosting fees. Despite not being the original host, Malaysia sees an opportunity to benefit financially from the event, with ticket and hospitality sales contributing to the overall revenue. The Bahrain Grand Prix will see several practice sessions, qualifying, and the race taking place over the course of two days, with coverage available on Sky Sports in the UK, Apple TV in the US, and potentially via a VPN for international viewers.
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