Formula 1 is returning to Malaysia for the first time since 2017. The Sepang International Circuit has been added to this year’s calendar and is scheduled to be held on October 2-4, 2026. Interestingly, though, the event will be held as the Bahrain GP, with the Middle Eastern kingdom funding the race.
- Sepang previously hosted F1 races from 1999-2017
- 2026 race will run as Bahrain GP
Malaysia to host Bahrain GP
New race to slot in between Azerbaijan and Singapore
Earlier this year, F1 was forced to cancel races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Efforts were underway to find alternate slots for these on the current calendar, and it looks like F1 has found a surprising solution.
F1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain and the Government of Malaysia have reached an agreement for the Bahrain GP to be held at the Sepang International Circuit, instead. The venue regularly hosted F1 races from 1999 to 2017. Despite being well-liked by drivers and teams, Sepang was dropped from the F1 calendar due to rising hosting costs and sanctioning fees.
“We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026. Once again, the sport has demonstrated its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1,” said F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
He added, “Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue. Malaysia is an incredible country, and Sepang holds a special place in Formula 1 history. t will provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans at the circuit and watching around the world.”
The Sepang race will be held on October 2-4, that’s between the Azerbaijan (September 24-26) and Singapore (October 9-11) rounds, making it triple-header.