Sepang Weather Update LIVE: Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 Start Delayed Due to Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms — When Will F1 Race Start Today In Malaysia? Check Hourly Forecast

The F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia will not start at its scheduled time after heavy rain and thunderstorms hit the Sepang International Circuit. Race Control has confirmed that the start has been delayed, but no revised start time has been announced yet.

Formula 1’s return to Sepang has been hit by exactly the kind of weather threat that had been forecast for the Malaysian circuit. Rain has intensified heavily around the track, with water now covering large sections of the circuit and visibility severely reduced. The conditions are currently considered unsuitable for the race to get underway.

The delay comes with the grandstands packed, as thousands of fans have turned up at Sepang for the first Formula 1 race at the circuit since 2017. The heavy downpour has left spectators and teams waiting for the weather to ease before Race Control can make a call on when the formation lap can begin.

The latest reports from the circuit show that the rain is still coming down heavily, with standing water becoming a major concern. Lightning in the area has also added to the safety challenge. The Guardian’s live coverage has confirmed that the race start has been delayed because of the heavy rain and lightning.

Sepang Weather Update: Heavy Rain Makes F1 Race Start Difficult