Bahrain Grand Prix attracts an unprecedented number of spectators in Sepang
The Sepang International Circuit witnessed its highest attendance ever, as 261,000 spectators turned out for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix weekend, with 103,000 present on race day.
Originally set for April, the Bahrain Grand Prix was postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and was later rescheduled to 4 October, with Malaysia as the host nation.
This race weekend marked Formula 1's first return to the track since 2017. Max Verstappen of Red Bull secured his first grand prix victory of the season, also marking the inaugural win for Red Bull Powertrains. Joining him on the podium were current championship leader Kimi Antonelli in second place, and Lewis Hamilton from Ferrari in third.
“We’ve had an extraordinary Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, and I want to acknowledge the relentless passion and dedication of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa for both his race and for Formula 1," F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali remarked following the race.
"Thanks to his vision, resolve, and quick thinking, we experienced a true representation of the Bahrain event this weekend, achieved in just two short months. His team collaborated with the Sepang International Circuit team to meet this challenge head-on.
"We have been warmly welcomed back to Malaysia and the SIC for the first time in nearly a decade, a period during which the sport has evolved significantly, as evidenced by this unprecedented, sell-out race.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
"Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the fans – their enthusiasm and affection for the sport are evident, and they have created an electrifying atmosphere throughout the weekend. Without their support, our sport would not be the same, and their dedication as we worked to deliver this race has been remarkable. We hope they leave with unforgettable memories of this truly unique chapter in F1’s history."
The chief executive of Bahrain International Circuit, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, stated: "This weekend, we truly brought Bahrain to Malaysia. The powerful platform of F1 provided us, along with our colleagues from Team Bahrain, the chance to exhibit our culture and hospitality to fans in the region at this iconic venue.
"Over 260,000 fans came to witness the largest event ever held at Sepang International Circuit, and we are incredibly thankful to them for their passion and energy.
"An undertaking of this scale, accomplished in such a short timeframe, would not have been possible without our outstanding partnership with SIC. Together with the backing of F1, the FIA, the Bahrain Motor Federation, and the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, this weekend demonstrated teamwork, commitment, and the unity of two nations to create a historic moment for F1.
"We appreciate everyone who contributed to making this weekend possible and look forward to hosting the sport back in Bahrain next March."
The Bahrain Grand Prix was the second race in a triple-header series, following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and leading into next weekend's Singapore Grand Prix.
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