Sepang:A record-breaking 261,000 spectators attended the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia in 2026, marking the highest attendance ever for the venue.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sepang International Circuit confirmed this record attendance figure, which includes 103,000 fans who were present for the main race day. The announcement was corroborated by Bahrain International Circuit's chief executive, Sheikh Salman Isa Al Khalifa.

Sheikh Salman highlighted that the Formula One platform served as a significant opportunity to present Bahrain's cultural and hospitality offerings to a regional audience at the renowned Malaysian location. He expressed gratitude to the fans for their enthusiastic support at what he described as the biggest event ever held at the circuit.

This new attendance record surpasses the previous high of 126,690 spectators set during the 2008 Malaysian Grand Prix.

In July, Formula 1 announced that Malaysia would host the Gulf Air Bahrain GP from October 2 to 4, following an agreement with Formula 1, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain. This arrangement ensured the Bahrain GP remained on the 2026 F1 calendar after earlier cancellations due to geopolitical issues in West Asia.

The Sepang International Circuit previously hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 until 2017.