‘Hopefully, we will meet again in Sepang’: Anwar thanks F1 fans for rocking Malaysia

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the close cooperation between SIC and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), together with the commitment of the organising teams, had enabled the race to be held successfully. — Bernama pic

First Published: Monday, 05 Oct 2026 10:51 AM MYT

Last Modified: Monday, 05 Oct 2026 11:02 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has thanked Bahrain for entrusting Malaysia and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to host the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, saying the event further strengthened ties between the two countries.

In a Facebook post today, Anwar said close cooperation between SIC and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), together with the commitment of the organising teams, had enabled the race to be held successfully.

He also paid tribute to those working behind the scenes, including bus drivers, security personnel, volunteers, traders and cleaning staff, saying their hard work and dedication deserved recognition.

“Thank you to F1 fans from around the world who attended, and especially Malaysians who enlivened the race and welcomed our guests with warmth and courtesy,” he said.

Anwar said Malaysians had showcased the country as friendly, open and rich in goodwill.

“Hopefully, we will meet again in Sepang. Insya-Allah!” Anwarsaid.

The Bahrain GP, held at Sepang from Oct 2 to 4, was won by Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen, with Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli second and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton third. Verstappen’s victory was his first of the 2026 season.

The rain-hit race was delayed by more than an hour before getting under way, with Verstappen eventually securing victory after recovering the lead from the Mercedes pair.