Tune in to BBC coverage for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, featuring session times and audio streams.
Round 16 of the 2026 Formula 1 season heads to Malaysia for the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place from October 2 to 4. Drivers arrive at the Sepang circuit following George Russell securing a victory for Mercedes in Azerbaijan, ahead of Kimi Antonelli, Max Verstappen, and Isack Hadjar.
The race was originally postponed in March due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, before being added back to the calendar with Malaysia hosting on behalf of Bahrain. The event is officially known as the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, according to information published by BBC.
With Sunday's 56-lap grand prix starting at 08:00 BST, motorsport fans can follow all the action live across various digital platforms, smart speakers, and radio broadcasts provided by the BBC network throughout the weekend.
BBC radio and online broadcast schedule
Live commentary of the main race will be available across BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, and the official BBC Sport website and application. Listeners can also ask their smart speaker to play 5 Live for instant audio access.
Fans can catch every episode of the Chequered Flag podcast, with the post-race show available to watch on BBC iPlayer and YouTube for the first time this year. Session broadcasts include first practice, second practice, third practice, and qualifying sessions on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra.
Sepang weather forecast and heat-hazard race
The weather in Malaysia for this weekend has been officially declared a heat-hazard race, bringing hot, humid, and stormy conditions to the Sepang circuit. Track action carries a risk of rain and thundery showers.
Temperatures during the three days of racing are expected to reach a high of 33C, presenting an additional physical challenge for drivers like Mercedes star George Russell, Red Bull duo Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, and championship leader Kimi Antonelli.
Why the Bahrain Grand Prix is in Malaysia
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were initially scheduled for April but were called off in March as a result of the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.
The arrangement to stage this race between Bahrain and Malaysia was heavily influenced by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Despite being held in Malaysia, Bahrain has retained the official naming rights for the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?
The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia takes place from October 2 to 4, 2026, with the 56-lap main race starting on Sunday at 08:00 BST.
How can I listen to the F1 race on the BBC?
You can listen to live race commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport website and app, or by asking your smart speaker to play 5 Live.
Why is the Bahrain Grand Prix being held in Malaysia?
The race was moved to Malaysia after the original March dates in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were called off due to the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.
What is the weather forecast for the Sepang circuit?
The race has been declared a heat-hazard race, with hot, humid, stormy conditions, a risk of rain and thundery showers, and temperatures reaching a high of 33C.
