Formula 1 will make a long-awaited return to Malaysia in 2026 after confirming that Sepang International Circuit will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on October 2-4. The move comes as a temporary solution that preserves the Bahrain round of the championship amid ongoing regional challenges, with the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 calendar unchanged. The event remains subject to final agreements and approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
Rather than removing Bahrain from the schedule altogether, Formula 1, the FIA and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia reached an agreement to relocate the event to Sepang while retaining its Bahrain Grand Prix title. Officials described the arrangement as an example of the sport’s ability to adapt while ensuring teams, partners and fans continue to benefit from a full championship calendar. Bahrain, which became the first Middle Eastern nation to host Formula 1 in 2004, remains committed to the championship despite the circumstances surrounding this year’s event.
The announcement marks the return of one of the sport’s most celebrated modern circuits. Sepang hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 through 2017 and earned a reputation for producing memorable races thanks to its fast, flowing layout, heavy braking zones and unpredictable tropical weather. The Hermann Tilke-designed circuit has been the site of numerous championship-defining moments and remains popular among drivers and fans alike.
The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia will be held between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, creating a three-race stretch across Asia. Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the agreement demonstrates the sport’s ability to find solutions while preserving the championship calendar, adding that Sepang remains one of Formula 1’s great venues. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed those sentiments, thanking both governments for their cooperation and noting that safety and the wellbeing of competitors, officials and fans remained the priority throughout the process.
Officials from Bahrain and Malaysia also emphasized that the agreement reflects the strong relationship between the two countries. Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa described the arrangement as a reflection of Bahrain’s enduring commitment to Formula 1, while Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the return of Formula 1 to Sepang showcases the country’s ability to host major international sporting events and strengthens ties between the two nations.
Ticket information for the event is expected to be announced at a later date.