Apple TV Streams 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
Sepang Welcomes Back Formula 1
The 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix is set to commence today at 15:00, remarkably taking place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Apple TV announced a complimentary live broadcast of this weekend’s highly anticipated event. This generous offer allows fans to watch the entire schedule, spanning from practice sessions to the main race, without purchasing a paid subscription.
American audiences can access the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia coverage using the Apple TV application across various compatible platforms. Supported devices include Apple hardware, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox, and Android systems. Alternatively, viewers can navigate directly to the web platform. Please note that this complimentary access remains exclusively available to viewers residing within the United States.
Verstappen Secures Pole Position
The qualifying rounds have already concluded with thrilling results. Red Bull driver Max Verstappen secured his first pole position of the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton claimed the second spot on the grid. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli initially qualified fourth. However, he ascended to third place following a five-place grid penalty imposed on Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar.
Notably, Antonelli delivered the absolute fastest lap during the final practice session, leaving Verstappen trailing in second. Ultimately, Verstappen asserted his complete dominance during qualifying. He clinched the pole position with a blistering lap time of 1:35.130, finishing approximately three-tenths of a second ahead of Hamilton.
Why is the Bahrain Race in Malaysia?
This unique geographic relocation occurred because regional tensions in the Middle East prevented the original Bahrain event from proceeding in April as planned. Formula 1 officially confirmed in March that both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races faced cancellation. Subsequently, Formula 1 and the FIA designated the Sepang International Circuit to host the rescheduled event from October 2 to 4. Officially titled the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix Malaysia, this occasion marks the venue’s momentous return to the motorsport calendar for the first time since 2017.
The Challenges of the Sepang Circuit
Returning to Sepang presents drivers with formidable challenges that remain entirely distinct from the traditional Sakhir circuit. Spanning 5.543 kilometers, the track features punishingly long straights and demanding high-speed corners. Furthermore, the sweltering, humid climate and the notoriously abrasive asphalt will heavily dictate tire management and overarching race strategies today.
