The start time for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia has been confirmed. The FIA has announced that the race will begin at 3:00pm local time (GMT+8), meaning drivers and team personnel will be competing in hot and humid conditions, with temperatures expected to reach around 30°C.
Unlike many of the flyaway races, which are held in the late afternoon or evening to avoid the worst of the heat, the Sepang race will be held under the afternoon sun, making it one of the hottest races of the season.
For the drivers, staying cool will be just as important as finding their pace. Cockpit temperatures regularly climb well above the ambient air temperature, and with races lasting close to two hours, dehydration and fatigue can quickly become major issues.
The heat will also pose a challenge for the teams. Managing tyre temperatures, cooling the power units, and ensuring the cars remain reliable throughout the race will all be key considerations as engineers prepare for Formula 1’s much anticipated return to Sepang.
Formula 1 drivers are no strangers to racing in extreme heat. One of the most memorable examples came at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where the combination of high temperatures, humidity, and relentless high-speed corners pushed many drivers to their physical limits. Esteban Ocon revealed he vomited inside his helmet during the race but still managed to finish seventh, while George Russell said he came close to fainting, describing it as the most physically demanding race of his career.
Adding to the challenge is Malaysia’s unpredictable tropical weather. While sunshine is expected, the region is well known for sudden, heavy downpours that can develop with little warning, potentially turning the race on its head.
One thing is certain: Formula 1’s return to Sepang won’t be an easy one. With heat, humidity, and a demanding circuit layout, the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia is shaping up to be one of the toughest and most intriguing races on the 2026 calendar.
