Formula 1 has found a remarkable solution to preserve the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, with the FIA and the championship confirming that the event will move to Malaysia’s iconic Sepang International Circuit on October 4.
In an unprecedented arrangement, Sepang will host the ‘Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia’ from October 2-4, 2026, with the race slot positioned between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.
The agreement, which remains subject to final contracts and approval from the World Motor Sport Council, brings together Formula 1, the FIA, the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia to ensure that the Bahrain round remains on next year’s calendar despite previous uncertainty surrounding the event.
The remainder of the 2026 schedule remain unchanged, for now.
F1 returns to Malaysia
The decision marks Formula 1’s return to Sepang for the first time since Malaysia hosted its final Grand Prix in 2017.
The Malaysian circuit, which joined the championship in 1999, has long been regarded as one of F1’s most demanding venues, combining a challenging layout with extreme weather conditions and a passionate fanbase.
©Formula1
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the collaborative effort that made the unusual arrangement possible, highlighting the sport’s ability to adapt when faced with logistical challenges.
“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.
“I would like to express our sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as well as their respective governments for making this extraordinary outcome possible through their vision, commitment, and decisive action.
“Of course, I would also like to thank FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration throughout the process.
“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 celebrates international cooperation behind Sepang return
For the FIA, the agreement represents a major achievement in protecting the integrity of the 2026 championship calendar while ensuring the interests and safety of everyone involved remain the priority.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the cooperation between all parties involved and welcomed Formula 1’s return to a circuit with deep roots in the sport’s history.
“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang circuit later this year.
“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.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of Formula 1 and the return of the Championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport.
“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.”
Ticketing information for the revived Sepang event will be announced at a later date.
The unexpected return of Formula 1 to Malaysia adds another chapter to Sepang’s legacy and ensures that fans will be treated to a full 2026 calendar, with one of the sport’s most celebrated venues once again taking centre stage.
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