Kuala lumpur: Dr. Waleed Khalifa Al Manea, Bahrain's Ambassador to Malaysia, affirmed the significance of hosting the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, marking a milestone in Bahrain-Malaysia relations. This event reflects the high level of trust and cooperation between the two nations.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the ambassador highlighted the agreement as a result of the robust ties between His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, King of Malaysia. These ties have recently been strengthened through the Malaysian King's state visit to Bahrain in 2025. Dr. Al Manea also emphasized the role of close communication between His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and His Excellency Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, in facilitating the arrangements for the event.
Dr. Al Manea noted that choosing the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit underscores confidence in Malaysia's experience in hosting Formula 1 events. He stated that Bahrain aims to stage the race to the highest international standards, highlighting the Kingdom's leadership in motorsport alongside Malaysia's reputation for hosting world-class sporting events. The ambassador also pointed out that the event's significance goes beyond sport, as it creates opportunities to enhance cooperation across sectors such as tourism, aviation, transport, investment, hospitality, and media. The launch of direct Gulf Air flights between Bahrain and Kuala Lumpur ahead of the race is expected to support travel and further connectivity between the countries.
He elaborated that Bahrain-Malaysia ties are founded on longstanding historical, cultural, and people-to-people connections, with the Grand Prix providing an opportunity to deepen engagement and encourage collaboration among businesses, cultural institutions, youth organizations, and media outlets. The ambassador reiterated that the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Malaysia will support preparations for the event, coordinating with relevant authorities and organizing activities to highlight Bahrain's cultural, economic, and tourism sectors.
Dr. Al Manea also welcomed the positive response from the Malaysian public, noting that Formula 1's return to Sepang Circuit after nine years has sparked significant interest among motorsport fans, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen ties between the Bahraini and Malaysian peoples. He expressed appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, the Malaysian government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the management of the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit for their cooperation and commitment to hosting the race. He reaffirmed the joint efforts of both countries to ensure the success of the global event and further strengthen Bahrain-Malaysia ties.