Max Verstappen Returns to Sepang for Unique 2026 Bahrain GP

The 2026 Formula 1 world championship features a unique schedule adjustment, moving the Bahrain Grand Prix from April to early October at the Sepang International Circuit outside Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, due to the Middle East conflict, speedweek.com reported.

Bahrain Grand Prix Moves to Sepang

The relocation marks the return of Formula 1 to Sepang exactly nine years after the last Malaysian Grand Prix took place on October 1, 2017. Max Verstappen won that 2017 race driving for Red Bull Racing, followed by Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton and Daniel Ricciardo in the second Red Bull entry.

Ten drivers from the 2017 grid remain active in the sport for the upcoming weekend. Alongside Verstappen and Hamilton, the returning group includes Valtteri Bottas, Esteban Ocon, Nico Hülkenberg, Sergio Pérez, Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll, Carlos Sainz, and Pierre Gasly. While Verstappen has previously won the Bahrain Grand Prix twice in 2023 and 2024 alongside his single Malaysia victory, the combination of hosting a Bahrain event at the Sepang venue has no precedent in the sport.

Verstappen Navigates Familiar Paddock Changes

Arriving at the track on October 1, the reigning champion admitted that an absence of several years caused initial disorientation in the paddock layout. We were now some years not here, and quite honestly—as I came into the paddock this morning—I didn’t know anymore where exactly I had to walk through, Verstappen said, as reported by speedweek.com.

The 29-year-old Dutch driver highlighted the physical demands of the venue, pointing to high temperatures, humidity, and an abrasive track surface that causes heavy tire wear. Regarding weather preparation, Verstappen maintained a straightforward approach to potential rain conditions. I know what is coming here for me, also with a wet track. But I don’t overthink that. If it rains, then the track gets wet, and if it is wet, it is slippery, it’s as simple as that, he stated.

Verstappen Targets More Wins While Red Bull Collects Data

Although Red Bull Racing has outscored both Ferrari and McLaren in recent rounds, Verstappen noted that Mercedes still sits ahead in overall competitiveness. The team maintains a solid run of podium finishes, but the driver emphasized his primary objective for the remainder of the season. My goal consists of winning at least one more race this year. But that won’t be easy, Verstappen explained. Without an active championship battle to manage, the team aims to gather extensive data across diverse upcoming circuits to refine their 2027 challenger. On the driver market front, Verstappen expressed no surprise regarding Fernando Alonso’s recent contract extension with Aston Martin, praising the veteran’s competitive drive and continued speed.