F1 Return to Sepang Sends Hotel Rates Soaring Ahead of October Race Weekend

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 – Formula 1’s highly anticipated return to the Sepang International Circuit has triggered a sharp increase in hotel prices across the surrounding areas, with accommodation rates climbing significantly as race weekend approaches.

A survey of major booking platforms found that hotel prices in Sepang, Cyberjaya and Putrajaya have at least tripled for stays during the Formula 1 weekend scheduled from October 2 to October 4, 2026. Several hotels closest to the circuit have already sold out due to overwhelming demand from local and international fans.

The surge follows the confirmation that Sepang International Circuit will host the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, marking Formula 1’s return to the country for the first time since 2017 after the Bahrain race was relocated because of security concerns in the Middle East.

Accommodation booking platforms such as Booking.com and Trip.com have recorded a substantial increase in searches and reservations immediately after the announcement, with premium hotels seeing the fastest rise in room rates.

According to travel industry data, international flight bookings to Malaysia for the race period have also increased significantly, reflecting growing global interest in Formula 1’s return to Sepang. Hotel bookings in Sepang surged by more than 1,600%, while nearby Dengkil recorded an increase of more than 2,500% compared with the same period last year.

Tourism operators expect the event to provide a major boost to Malaysia’s hospitality sector, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and local businesses throughout the Klang Valley.

Industry observers believe the Formula 1 weekend could become one of Malaysia’s largest tourism events of 2026, attracting thousands of motorsport fans from across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

With demand continuing to rise, travellers planning to attend the race are being encouraged to secure accommodation early, as room availability near the circuit is becoming increasingly limited.

Hotels located farther from Sepang are also experiencing higher occupancy rates as visitors search for more affordable alternatives while remaining within driving distance of the circuit.

The return of Formula 1 is expected to generate millions of ringgit in tourism spending while reinforcing Malaysia’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events.

The event is also anticipated to create positive spillover effects across aviation, retail, food and beverage, and entertainment industries as visitors extend their stays before and after the race weekend.

With just weeks remaining before the October event, tourism stakeholders are optimistic that Formula 1’s comeback will deliver one of the strongest travel demand periods Malaysia has experienced in recent years.