Formula 1® (F1®) made its long-awaited return to Malaysia last weekend after a nine-year absence, with Sepang International Circuit playing host to the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026. Heineken® commemorated the milestone with a range of F1®-themed experiences both on and beyond the track.

Since 2016, Heineken® has served as a Global Partner of F1®, with the collaboration encompassing fan experiences and responsible-consumption initiatives at race weekends worldwide.

In Malaysia, this was brought to life through Fans Have More Friends, Heineken®'s global sponsorship platform, built on the belief that shared passions can create opportunities for real-life connection.

Beyond the racing itself, the weekend also united F1® and music at Sepang International Circuit, with Axwell performing on Saturday, 3 October, followed by Martin Garrix on Sunday, 4 October.

“Having F1® return to Malaysia after nine years, through the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026, was a significant moment for fans here,” said Sean O’Donnell, Marketing Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia. “What made the weekend even more special was seeing two shared passions – F1® and music – come together in one experience. That is very much what Fans Have More Friends is about: creating opportunities for people to connect through the things they already love, whether that is racing, music or both. 

"As a long-standing Global Partner of F1®, responsible consumption remains an important part of how we show up around these occasions. With initiatives in place to support safer journeys to and from race-weekend activities, our message remains clear: When You Drive, Never Drink.”

Throughout the weekend, selected bars hosted F1® watch parties for fans, with Heineken® supporting participating venues across the races. Alongside the on-track action, two nights of music featuring Axwell and Martin Garrix brought sport and music together, embodying the shared fandoms at the core of Fans Have More Friends.

Through Fans Have More Friends, Heineken® highlights how common interests can help people connect in real life. Whether it's music, football or Formula 1®, the platform is built on the belief that fandom gives people something in common – and sometimes, that's all it takes to spark a conversation.

For the latest updates on upcoming Heineken® experiences, follow @heinekenmy on Instagram or visit https://www.instagram.com/heinekenmy/.