Bahrain circuit chief recalls surprise call that moved race to Sepang
The 2026 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix was relocated to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The decision was finalized through high-level diplomatic coordination between Bahraini leadership and Formula 1 officials.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of international sports, logistics, and geopolitical instability affecting global event scheduling.
SEPANG: The decision to stage the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (GP) at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this year came as a complete surprise to Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) chief executive Sheikh Salman Isa Al Khalifa.
Sheikh Salman said he learned of the plan on a phone call as he was leaving the 2026 Belgian GP at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Stavelot, Belgium, in July.
Recalling how the Bahrain Grand Prix came to be held at SIC this year, Sheikh Salman said it was Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Salman Hamad Al Khalifa, who called to inform him the race would be held in Malaysia.
"It's a very interesting one. I got a phone call from His Royal Highness while I was leaving Spa and he's like, 'Hi Salman, just want to let you know, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is happening this year.'
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