The Bahrain Grand Prix takes centre stage in Kuala Lumpur this weekend, with George Russell hoping to reduce Kimi Antonelli’s serious world title advantage.
Russell has a big chance to trim his Mercedes team-mate’s 66-point lead in the F1 Drivers’ Standings at the Sepang track in Malaysia, where this race will take place. At the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last weekend, Russell claimed an important victory over his colleague, with Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar completing the podium. Antonelli had crashed out by hitting the wall in the first session of qualifying in Baku, leaving him in 16th position on the starting grid.
Russell eyes fifth win of the year
Russell will be hoping for another pole position here, which would help him on his way to a fifth victory of the year.
When is the Bahrain Grand Prix?
The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix takes place today on Sunday, October 4 at the Sepang International Circuit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Qualifying is due to start at 9am BST on Saturday, with the race itself at 8am BST on Sunday.
Why is the Bahrain Grand Prix taking place in Malaysia?
The original Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grand Prix weekends were cancelled at the start of the year as a result of the US and Israel’s invasion of Iran in February. As a result, the Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa was able to negotiate a deal that would revive the event, and as such, it will go ahead in Malaysia. Geographically, a return to Sepang after a nine-year hiatus makes sense, with the drivers able to travel via Malaysia from Baku for the Singapore Grand Prix, which follows this race.
How to watch Bahrain Grand Prix
TV channel: In the UK, the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix is available to watch live on Sky Sports. The main build-up starts at 6.30am BST on Sunday, with the race itself from 8am. Coverage is also available throughout via Sky Sports Main Event.
Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the action live online through the Sky Go app.
Bahrain Grand Prix weather forecast
As usual, it is likely to be hot and humid, and there is a risk of thunder and lightning too to accompany torrential rain.
