Formula 1 Returns to Malaysia: Sepang to Host Bahrain GP in October
Due to regional challenges threatening the race in Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA have agreed to move the Grand Prix to the iconic Sepang circuit from October 2-4, 2026.
Due to regional challenges threatening the race in Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA have agreed to move the Grand Prix to the iconic Sepang circuit from October 2-4, 2026.
Formula 1 and the FIA have officially confirmed that the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia from October 2 to 4, 2026, instead of the usual Bahrain International Circuit. The event, which is still subject to final agreements and official approval by the World Motor Sport Council, will be called the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The rest of the 2026 calendar remains unchanged.
According to Formula 1's official announcement, the relocation is due to regional challenges that would prevent the race from being held in Bahrain. The specific reasons are not detailed in the statement, but the release repeatedly cites the 'safety and well-being of the teams, volunteers, officials, and fans' as the highest priority. The agreement was reached between Formula 1, the FIA, the government of Bahrain, and the government of Malaysia, thus preserving the Grand Prix which would otherwise not have taken place.
The Sepang International Circuit debuted as an F1 track back in 1999 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most challenging and iconic circuits on the calendar. It is known for its passionate fans, exciting races, and unpredictable weather conditions, especially tropical downpours that can completely change the dynamics of a race. Malaysia last hosted Formula 1 in 2017, when the final Malaysian Grand Prix was held at Sepang, after which the race was removed from the calendar.
In terms of the calendar, the race will be placed between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix, filling the gap created by the absence of the Bahrain race. Information on ticket sales will be announced later, the statement said.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the agreement: "We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain GP. Once again, the sport has shown its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone following Formula 1." FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem added that he is 'incredibly proud of the collaboration' that enabled Formula 1's return to an iconic circuit.
Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, stated: "This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain's enduring commitment and passion for the sport. Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for Formula 1." Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that the cooperation 'reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust, and close partnership' between the two countries.
The return of Formula 1 to Malaysia stirs strong nostalgia among followers of the sport. Sepang has been the stage for numerous unforgettable moments in F1 history, and its combination of fast corners, long straights, and tropical climate makes it a special experience for both drivers and fans. The last race at Sepang in 2017 remains etched in fans' memories, and now the circuit returns to the spotlight as the host of one of the most significant Grands Prix of the season. Significant interest in tickets is expected, given that this will be the first F1 event in Malaysia after nearly a nine-year hiatus.
