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Race result 5 sources

F1 returns to Sepang as proxy host for Bahrain Grand Prix

First reported · latest

Oscar Piastri Lewis Hamilton

Formula 1's 2026 season includes a one-off return to Malaysia's Sepang circuit, hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix. Drivers face a rough, sandpaper-like track surface and unpredictable weather, with most of the grid lacking prior experience at the venue.

Oscar Piastri Lewis Hamilton

How the sources differ

The Race highlights the rough track surface and strategy uncertainty, while Autosport and Motorsport.com focus on the circuit's return and its challenges. Sky Sports F1 revisits Hamilton's 2017 pole lap, and social posts discuss driver experience and weather concerns.

Recommended first read: The Race's article is the most comprehensive, covering the track surface, strategy implications, and driver quotes, with an image and no paywall.

Coverage

The major unknown as F1 braces for 'sandpaper' rough Sepang track

Recommended The Race ·

Inside the chaos of the F1 drivers’ pre-Sepang training camp

Formula1.com ·

The unpredictability to expect for F1's one-off return to Sepang in 2026

Autosport ·

What the drivers are expecting from F1's return to Sepang

Motorsport.com ·

What to expect from the Sepang International Circuit!

Sky Sports F1 ·

On social

The 2026 F1 grid who had experience at Sepang

r/formula1 ·

Sepang living up to its reputation

r/formula1 ·

[@wearetherace] What we learned from walking the Sepang circuit today

r/formula1 ·