THE atmosphere was electric and Formula One fans were buzzing with excitement yesterday as the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia flagged off at Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
F1 lovers in the tens of thousands braved the daytime heat and humidity – as well as heavy traffic – to witness top stars in action on the first of three days of the kingdom’s grand prix spectacle.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, visited SIC and met with a number of F1’s star drivers and key stakeholders.
He also reviewed the final preparations for the race.
HRH Prince Salman met Bahraini marshals and organisers, who have won praise for their ‘incredible’ efforts in putting together the unique event, which is happening more than 6,000 kilometres away from home.
He emphasised that the successes of Team Bahrain across various fields of work, and their ability to deliver results under any circumstance or challenge, are a source of great pride and honour to the kingdom.
“The people of Bahrain are the kingdom’s greatest asset, serving as ambassadors across every field, with their active presence and sustained contributions reflecting the competence, capability, and commitment that uphold the kingdom’s standing and advance the vision of His Majesty King Hamad,” he said.
The Crown Prince and Prime Minister commended the dedication of the national workforce, outlining that their contributions speak to the extensive talent, expertise, and capabilities of the people of Bahrain.
His Royal Highness was also briefed on the accompanying events and initiatives, including the ‘Bahrain Village’, which showcases Bahraini identity and highlights the kingdom’s tourism, cultural, and heritage assets, reflecting its diversity and strengthening its position as a distinguished tourist destination.
HRH Prince Salman expressed his appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the Interior and Foreign ministries, the Embassy of Bahrain in Malaysia, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, Batelco, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Bahrain International Circuit, Bahrain Motor Federation, Motorsport Marshals Club, Beyon, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre, and local newspapers as well as all those involved in organising the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia.
He underscored the importance of further investing in the national workforce and providing opportunities for them to develop their expertise and capabilities further, contributing to Bahrain’s continued achievements and development.
For their part, the organisers of the grand prix expressed their gratitude to His Royal Highness for his committed support of the national workforce, affirming that his guidance serves as a source of pride and motivation to strengthen their efforts in support of the progress and prosperity of Bahrain.
This year’s grand prix is marking an historic occasion, pushing forward outside of Bahrain after being put off from its original schedule due to the extraordinary circumstances that have impacted the region and the rest of the world.
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