Sepang, Malaysia: Formula One fans attending the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit have faced significant transportation problems, with long shuttle-bus queues and congestion creating frustration among spectators.

The event, being held at Sepang because the original Bahrain venue could not host the race amid regional security tensions, has attracted large crowds to the Malaysian circuit. However, difficulties moving spectators in and out of the venue have emerged as a major local issue during the race weekend.

Fans reported waiting for hours for shuttle buses after leaving the circuit. Some spectators said they were forced to walk several kilometres toward nearby transport hubs because buses were delayed by heavy traffic and large crowds.

The situation became particularly difficult after Friday’s practice sessions, when large numbers of spectators attempted to leave Sepang at the same time. Reports indicated that some fans remained stranded late into the evening, while others complained about a lack of clear signage and organised queues.

The transportation problems also generated concerns about crowd safety. Videos circulating online showed large groups of spectators waiting for buses and attempting to board vehicles amid crowded conditions. Some fans described the experience as chaotic and called for better coordination between transport operators, event organisers and authorities.

Rapid KL had arranged 95 free shuttle buses for the event, operating from several locations including Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2, Mitsui Outlet Park and Bandar Baru Enstek. The service was intended to operate throughout the day and evening, although traffic conditions affected actual journey times and bus frequency.

The Sepang International Circuit acknowledged the difficulties experienced by spectators and worked with transport partners and authorities to improve traffic management, shuttle operations and crowd control.

Conditions subsequently improved as additional personnel, marshals and transport resources were deployed. On Sunday, thousands of fans were reported to be reaching the circuit more smoothly, with spectators noting that the increased number of buses and marshals had made the journey easier than on the opening day.

Additional measures were also introduced to help spectators leave the venue. Grab Malaysia increased its on-ground operations at the circuit and the Long Term Car Park, providing staff to guide passengers and drivers. The company also established shaded waiting areas with cooling fans and drinking water and introduced a queue-management system to help organise passengers.

The transportation difficulties have highlighted the challenges of handling a major international sporting event at a circuit that has returned to the Formula One calendar after a long absence. Sepang last hosted a Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017 before returning to the spotlight for this year’s relocated Bahrain event.

For local authorities and organisers, the experience has provided an important lesson in managing large-scale spectator movement. With tens of thousands of people arriving and departing within a short period, effective shuttle scheduling, dedicated traffic lanes, clear signage and crowd-management personnel are essential.

Despite the transportation problems, the return of Formula One to Sepang has generated considerable enthusiasm among Malaysian motorsport fans. The circuit’s renewed international exposure has also revived interest in the possibility of Malaysia becoming a regular host for major international racing events.