Under the floodlights of Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, the Bahrain Grand Prix brings F1’s desert duel to life, with big braking zones and shifting winds.
As a key early stop in the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship, it’s a first real form guide where strategy, tyre management and cool heads can set the title tone.
Image: Formula 1 ©
Bahrain GP 2026 schedule and time
| Session | Date | Local Time | UK Time (GMT/BST) | US ET Time | Paris/Brussels Time (CET/CEST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practice 1 | Fri 10 Apr | Fri 13:30 | Fri 14:30 | Fri 09:30 | Fri 15:30 |
| Practice 2 | Fri 10 Apr | Fri 17:00 | Fri 18:00 | Fri 13:00 | Fri 19:00 |
| Practice 3 | Sat 11 Apr | Sat 14:30 | Sat 15:30 | Sat 10:30 | Sat 16:30 |
| Qualifying | Sat 11 Apr | Sat 18:00 | Sat 19:00 | Sat 14:00 | Sat 20:00 |
| Race | Sun 12 Apr | Sun 17:00 | Sun 18:00 | Sun 13:00 | Sun 19:00 |
How to watch the 2026 Bahrain GP
Coverage for the Bahrain Grand Prix will be available on Apple TV, Sky Sports F1 (UK), ESPN (US), Canal+ (France), RTBF (Belgium), and F1 TV Pro for eligible regions.
Support series this weekend
Formula 2 and Formula 3 join the Bahrain GP, intensifying their thrilling championship battles as contenders push for early-season momentum. Expect fierce racing from rising stars aiming to impress on this challenging 5.4km circuit under the desert floodlights.
FAQ – Bahrain Grand Prix 2026
When is the Bahrain Grand Prix?
The Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 race takes place on April 12, with practice sessions on April 10 and 11, and qualifying on April 11 in the evening.
Where is the race held?
The race is held at the Bahrain International Circuit, located in Sakhir, Bahrain. The circuit is a 5.412 km technical track designed by Hermann Tilke.
How long is the race?
The race covers a total distance of 308.238 kilometers, completed over 57 laps around the circuit.
