HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister awards the champion of the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today awarded the champion of the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, Max Verstappen of Oracle Red Bull Racing, the winner of the 22nd edition of the event.
The event was hosted by Malaysia with the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia.
His Royal Highness extended his congratulations to the podium finishers and all participating teams, commending their exceptional performance and competitive spirit, which contributed to the success of this year’s race in Malaysia.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister emphasised that hosting international sporting fixtures are the bedrock of Bahrain’s leading position on the global sports stage and showcases the Kingdom’s expertise in motorsports. His Royal Highness noted that such events contribute to reinforcing Bahrain’s standing in global sports and advances national development led by His Majesty the King.
His Royal Highness expressed his appreciation to His Majesty the King of Malaysia and HE Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, for their unwavering support in hosting the race in Malaysia, commending the cooperation extended to ensure the event’s success.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to Formula 1, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), Petronas Sepang International Circuit, and the participating teams for their support and cooperation, which contributed to the success of the race.
His Royal Highness highlighted the continued development of Bahrain-Malaysia relations, emphasising the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation and collaboration, in support of shared prosperity and growth for both countries and their peoples.
His Royal Highness commended the successful efforts of Team Bahrain in organising the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister noted that Team Bahrain’s successful organisation of the race outside the Kingdom, amidst exceptional challenges, reflects the expertise, capabilities, and organisational excellence of the people of Bahrain.
His Royal Highness underscored that Team Bahrain’s ability to continue achieving success under various challenges enhances the Kingdom’s standing internationally and reinforces Bahrain’s ability in hosting major global sporting events.
During the event, His Royal Highness toured the circuit, engaging with motorsport enthusiasts and inspected the pit lane and track ahead of the start of the race.
Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes-AMG Petronas and Sir Lewis Hamilton of Scuderia Ferrari HP secured second and third places, respectively.
