Formula 1 is back at Sepang this weekend after a nine‑year absence, as the Bahrain Grand Prix is relocated to Malaysia.
Race Context
Kimi Antonelli’s championship lead has narrowed to 66 points following George Russell’s victory at the Azerbaijan GP, where he also converted pole into the win. Russell’s recent form has prompted Mercedes to announce a major upgrade package for Sepang, aiming to build on the team’s strong showing in Baku.
Circuit Characteristics
The Sepang International Circuit blends medium‑ and high‑speed corners with two extensive straights, demanding exceptional aerodynamic balance, tyre management and energy deployment under the 2026 regulations. Its layout makes battery utilisation a central strategy focus.
Weather Forecast
Friday will present hot temperatures above 32 °C and a significant chance of rain, creating a potential challenge for teams setting up in shifting grip conditions. Fridays’ wet risk may force rapid adjustments to set‑up and long‑run strategies; however, the Sunday session is predicted to be dry.
Timing & Practice Session Times
All times are local to Sepang (MYT).
- Friday, 2 October
- Free Practice 1 – 12:30 pm
- Free Practice 2 – 4:00 pm
- Saturday, 3 October
- Free Practice 3 – 12:30 pm
- Qualifying – 4:00 pm
- Sunday, 4 October
- Race – 3:00 pm
UK viewers: practice 1 at 5:30 a.m. BST, practice 2 at 9:00 a.m. BST.
US Eastern viewers: practice 1 at 12:30 a.m. ET, practice 2 at 4:00 a.m. ET.
Broadcast Coverage
In the United States, the Apple TV platform streams the entire weekend free of charge, with no subscription requirement for live sessions. F1 TV remains the series’ global subscription‑based streaming option. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports holds exclusive rights, offering live broadcasts and streaming via Sky Go or NOW, and free‑to‑air highlights on Channel 4. Motorsport.com supplies continuous text coverage and updates.
Looking Ahead
Teams will use Friday’s practice to assess the Sepang layout, tune hybrid energy setups and iron out tyre strategies before the crucial qualifying session sets the grid for the championship‑deciding race. The high temperatures and variable weather will test each driver’s adaptability and each team’s engineering resilience.
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