SIC optimistic of hitting 100,000 ticket sales for F1 Bahrain GP

SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif expressed optimism that the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 could sell a record-breaking 100,000 tickets ahead of its Oct 2-4 race weekend at Sepang International Circuit. International visitors comprise 50% of ticket sales, indicating the race's strong appeal among overseas fans. The venue has already sold around 95,000 three-day tickets, a significant showing for F1's return to Malaysia after a nine-year break.

Azhan believes the experience SIC has created in Bahrain will be unprecedented, surpassing the 40,000 to 50,000 tickets sold during the Malaysian GP's glory days in 2008. Ticket sales for the Malaysian GP at SIC are limited to three-day passes, as single-day tickets are not available. Azhan highlighted the rapid transformation underway at SIC to meet Formula 1's requirements, particularly the upgrade of the paddock area.

He praised the entertainment lineup in Bahrain, confident that ticket buyers will get their money's worth during their visit. The Bahrain International Circuit chief executive, Sheikh Salman Isa Al Khalifa, stated that the influx of visitors would extend the economic impact of the race beyond SIC, generating approximately USD240 million (RM979 million) in economic benefit for Malaysia.

Sheikh Salman expressed hope that the race would provide fans with a memorable experience, allowing them to witness Bahrain's culture and leave with a smile.