Formula 1 returns to Sepang in 2026, bringing one of the biggest motorsport weekends in Malaysia back to PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia takes place from 2–4 October 2026. For international fans, transport planning matters just as much as tickets and accommodation because race-weekend traffic around Sepang, KLIA and the main highways can become significantly heavier than usual.
F1 Malaysia 2026
Venue: PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Sepang, Selangor
Dates: Friday 2 October – Sunday 4 October 2026
Calendar position: Between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix
01 / The Return
1. Formula 1 Returns to Sepang in 2026
Sepang first hosted Formula 1 in 1999 and became one of the championship’s most recognisable Asian circuits. The 2026 event marks Formula 1’s return to the venue after a nine-year absence.
The official 2026 Formula 1 calendar lists the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia from 2–4 October, with Singapore following one week later from 9–11 October.
02 / The Circuit
2. Where Is Sepang International Circuit?
PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit is located at Jalan Pekeliling, 64000 KLIA, Selangor. The circuit is strategically located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport, making the airport corridor one of the most practical bases for race-weekend visitors.
The circuit itself is 5.543 km long, with 15 corners and 8 straights, according to Sepang International Circuit.
03 / Airport Arrival
3. Getting to Sepang Circuit from KLIA
For overseas visitors, KLIA and KLIA Terminal 2 are the most convenient arrival points. The circuit sits within the wider KLIA/Sepang area, so staying near the airport can reduce the amount of race-day road travel compared with commuting from central Kuala Lumpur.
Taxi, ride-hailing, event shuttle services and pre-arranged private transfers may all be options. Official event transport details can change, so check the organiser’s race-weekend updates before departure.
Useful for: International visitors, families with luggage, groups, early flight arrivals and travellers leaving for the airport after race weekend.
04 / From the Capital
4. Getting to Sepang Circuit from Kuala Lumpur
Fans staying in Kuala Lumpur should plan for heavier traffic as the weekend progresses. Friday practice may be easier than Sunday race day, but transport demand can increase around every major session.
Common approaches include driving, ride-hailing, a private chauffeur, or combining KLIA Ekspres with onward ground transport from the airport area.
Avoid planning your arrival around the shortest normal-day driving time. Entry roads, parking access and post-race exits can all add significant time during a major event.
05 / Airport Corridor
5. From Putrajaya, Cyberjaya & the Airport Corridor
Putrajaya, Cyberjaya, Kota Warisan and the KLIA corridor can be practical accommodation areas for fans who want to stay closer to Sepang than central Kuala Lumpur.
This approach can make early arrival and post-race departure easier, while still giving travellers access to restaurants, malls and airport facilities.
06 / Northbound
6. Travelling from Johor Bahru or Singapore
Fans travelling from Johor Bahru or Singapore should treat the journey as a long-distance trip rather than a same-day city transfer. Overnight accommodation near Sepang, KLIA, Putrajaya or Kuala Lumpur is usually the more practical approach.
For Singapore-origin journeys, remember that cross-border travel also includes Malaysia immigration clearance before continuing north towards Sepang.
A pre-arranged private transfer can be useful for groups carrying luggage or travellers who want a direct point-to-point journey without changing transport several times.
07 / Choose Your Base
Where to Stay for F1 Malaysia 2026
| Area | Best For | Main Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| KLIA / Sepang | Shortest race-weekend transfer | Book early because motorsport weekends can drive demand. |
| Putrajaya / Cyberjaya | Balance between circuit access and city amenities | Still allow extra time for race traffic. |
| Kuala Lumpur | Nightlife, sightseeing and wider hotel choice | Longer daily commute to Sepang. |
08 / Be Prepared
Race-Day Transport Tips
01
Leave EarlyAllow time for traffic, parking, entry checks and walking to your grandstand.
02
Plan the ReturnTransport after the final session can be more difficult than the trip in. Arrange your exit plan before entering the circuit.
03
Check Official UpdatesParking zones, shuttles and access arrangements may be updated closer to race weekend.
Back-to-Back F1 Weekends
Doing Both Sepang and Singapore Grand Prix?
The 2026 Singapore Grand Prix follows just one week after Sepang, from 9–11 October. International fans can therefore combine Malaysia and Singapore into one motorsport trip.
If travelling overland between Malaysia and Singapore, plan for immigration clearance, luggage and cross-border traffic rather than treating the trip as a normal domestic transfer.
Trackside & Travel
F1 Malaysia 2026 Gallery
10 / Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Formula 1 Malaysia 2026?
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia is scheduled for 2–4 October 2026 at Sepang International Circuit.
Is Sepang International Circuit near KLIA?
Yes. Sepang International Circuit is located in the KLIA/Sepang area and is strategically located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Can I travel from Singapore to Sepang for F1?
Yes. It is a long-distance cross-border journey, so an overnight stay and advance transport planning are recommended.
Race-Weekend Transport
Going to F1 Malaysia 2026?
Plan private transport for KLIA, Kuala Lumpur, Sepang, Johor Bahru or Singapore before race-weekend demand builds.
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