Formula 1 confirms Malaysia return as Sepang added to 2026 calendar for Bahrain Grand Prix
Formula 1 has confirmed that the Sepang International Circuit will return to the calendar later this year after Malaysia was announced as the host venue for the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix.
The race, officially titled the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, will take place from October 2-4, filling the gap left after the original Bahrain event was postponed earlier this season due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The revised schedule remains subject to final agreements and approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
Sepang returns to the F1 calendar
Sepang last hosted an F1 race in 2017 before dropping off the calendar. Its return means the circuit will stage an F1 weekend for the first time in nine years.
The race will be held between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix, creating a triple-header across three consecutive weekends.
The addition also restores the 2026 Formula 1 calendar to 23 races following the earlier postponement of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
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Domenicali and Ben Sulayem welcome decision
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali thanked everyone involved in making the event possible.
"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."
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.
“It will provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans at the circuit and watching around the world.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also welcomed the decision, saying the governing body had worked closely with Formula 1, Bahrain and Malaysia to ensure the championship could continue while maintaining safety as the top priority.
"Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans remaining our highest priority.
“My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, for their vision and support in making this possible. We look forward to welcoming the global motorsport community back to Sepang.”
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