Formula 1 returns to Sepang International Circuit this weekend for the unusual Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, with the race scheduled for Sunday, October 4. High heat and humidity are expected throughout the weekend, with the FIA declaring a heat hazard for the event.
The Grand Prix begins at 3 p.m. local time at Sepang, which converts to 3 a.m. ET, 2 a.m. CT, 1 a.m. MT, and midnight PT in the United States. With the starting grid set, here’s how U.S. viewers can watch the F1 race.
How U.S. Viewers Can Watch the F1 Bahrain GP
U.S. viewers can watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia live on Apple TV, Formula 1’s new official U.S. broadcast partner. Apple TV carries the entire F1 weekend, including practice, qualifying, and the race.
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The Bahrain GP is also available through F1 TV, with the service now integrated into Apple’s U.S. F1 offering. F1 TV provides live onboard cameras, team radio, and additional feeds alongside the main race broadcast.
- Date: Sunday, October 4
- Race time: 3 a.m. ET / 12 a.m. PT
- TV/Streaming: Apple TV
- F1 TV: Available through Apple’s F1 offering
The early U.S. start is due to Sepang’s time difference from the United States. For American viewers, the key information is simple: set the alarm for 3 a.m. ET on Sunday to watch the Bahrain GP live.
Who Is Starting on Pole for the Bahrain GP?
Max Verstappen will lead the field from pole after qualifying fastest at Sepang, with Lewis Hamilton alongside him on the front row. Kimi Antonelli starts third, followed by Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris in the top five.
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Oscar Piastri and George Russell make up the third row, while Isack Hadjar originally qualified third but dropped to eighth following a grid penalty. Pierre Gasly starts ninth, with Gabriel Bortoleto completing the top 10.
The unusual Sepang race could also put extra emphasis on tire management, with the circuit’s heat, humidity and abrasive surface expected to challenge the drivers throughout the Grand Prix.
More F1 News
- F1 Bahrain Grand Prix Results: Full Finish Order, Winners and Losers in Malaysia
- Max Verstappen Admits Huge Problem With Red Bull Car Amid Bahrain GP Delay
- When Will F1 Bahrain GP in Malaysia Resume? Delayed Start, Weather Report, & More
- F1 Qualifying Results: Full Starting Grid for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
