AirAsia Targets Australian Motorsport Fans With Limited-Time Fare Sale Following Formula 1 Calendar Change
AirAsia has launched a limited-time fare promotion for Australian travelers after Formula 1 confirmed that the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be relocated to Malaysia, creating new travel opportunities for fans planning to attend the race.
The airline announced discounted flights and vacation packages from Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney after Formula 1 revealed that the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at Sepang International Circuit near Kuala Lumpur International Airport from October 2 to 4, 2026, pending final approval by the World Motor Sport Council.
The promotional campaign aims to make it more affordable for Australian motorsport enthusiasts to attend the event, which marks Sepang’s return to the Formula 1 calendar for the first time since 2017.
AirAsia Introduces Discounted Flights and Vacation Packages
AirAsia rolled out its Snap Sale shortly after Formula 1 confirmed the relocation of the race from Bahrain to Malaysia. The promotion includes discounted one-way fares as well as bundled flight-and-hotel packages available through the AirAsia MOVE platform.
Travelers departing from Perth can purchase one-way fares starting at $187, while six-day, five-night vacation packages begin at $379 per guest.
Passengers flying from Melbourne can secure one-way tickets from $384, with travel packages starting at $762 per guest.
Sydney-based travelers can book one-way fares beginning at $313, while bundled holiday packages start at $672 per guest.
Additional Savings on Checked Baggage
The airline is also offering baggage discounts as part of the promotion. Perth travelers can receive discounts of up to 35%, Melbourne passengers are eligible for savings of up to 50%, and Sydney travelers can save up to 40% on checked baggage.
The promotional fares are available for bookings made through August 2, 2026. Eligible travel dates extend into 2027, subject to availability and the terms of the promotion.
Bahrain Grand Prix Relocated Amid Regional Security Concerns
Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia agreed to relocate the Bahrain Grand Prix after ongoing security and logistical challenges in the Middle East made it impractical to stage the race at its traditional venue.
Rather than removing the event from the 2026 Formula 1 championship calendar, organizers elected to preserve the race by moving it to Malaysia.
Although the venue has changed, the event will retain its official identity as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The race is scheduled between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix, while the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar remains unchanged.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the agreement demonstrates the championship’s ability to adapt under challenging circumstances.
He also thanked the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, along with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, for enabling the event to proceed.
Sepang International Circuit Returns to the Formula 1 Calendar
Historic Venue Makes First Formula 1 Appearance Since 2017
Sepang International Circuit originally joined the Formula 1 calendar in 1999 and hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix annually until 2017. Over nearly two decades, the circuit became known for its high-speed layout, challenging corners, unpredictable tropical weather, and enthusiastic fan attendance.
Its return to the Formula 1 schedule represents one of the most significant changes to the 2026 championship and is expected to attract international visitors from across the Asia-Pacific region.
The relocated Bahrain Grand Prix is also expected to provide a boost to Malaysia’s tourism industry. Airlines, hotels, restaurants, and other travel-related businesses are likely to benefit from increased visitor demand during the race weekend.
Formula 1 has not yet opened ticket sales for the event. Organizers said additional information regarding ticket availability and purchasing options will be released in the coming weeks.
