F1 Race Schedule: Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Dates

The Malaysian Grand Prix will return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2026, according to a press release issued by the event organizers. The announcement confirms the race’s inclusion in the upcoming season, marking a significant step in the sport’s expansion across Asia. The event, which last took place in 2017, had been suspended due to financial and logistical challenges.

The Malaysian GP’s return was confirmed during a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, where F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Malaysia back to the calendar. The Sepang International Circuit has a rich history in motorsport, and this partnership reflects our commitment to growing the sport in emerging markets.” A spokesperson for the Malaysian government also highlighted the economic and cultural significance of the event, noting that it would “boost tourism and reinforce the country’s position as a global hub for major sporting events.”

The 2026 race is set to take place at the Sepang International Circuit, a 5.543-kilometer track that has hosted F1 races since 1999. The circuit’s inclusion in the calendar follows a series of negotiations between F1 officials, local authorities, and the event’s management team. A key factor in the decision was the track’s infrastructure upgrades, which were completed in 2023 to meet modern safety and technological standards.

The return of the Malaysian GP aligns with F1’s broader strategy to increase its presence in Asia. Over the past decade, the sport has expanded its calendar to include races in Vietnam, Singapore, and Qatar, with plans to add new venues in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Malaysian event is expected to draw significant international attention, given the region’s growing fan base and the track’s historical prominence.

Local media in Malaysia has expressed optimism about the race’s impact. “This is a major boost for the country’s sporting industry,” said a representative from the Malaysian Sports Federation. “The event will create jobs, attract investments, and inspire young athletes to pursue careers in motorsport.”

The 2026 Malaysian Grand Prix will be the 20th race on the F1 calendar, scheduled for late March. The exact date has not yet been finalized, but organizers have indicated that it will be held in conjunction with other regional events. Fans can expect updates on ticket sales, spectator arrangements, and broadcast details in the coming months.

F1’s decision to reinstate the Malaysian GP comes amid increased competition from other motorsport series, including the World Endurance Championship and the FIA Formula 2 Championship. The sport’s leadership has emphasized the importance of maintaining a diverse and geographically balanced calendar to sustain global engagement.

The Malaysian government has also announced plans to integrate the race with broader initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and technological innovation. A portion of the event’s revenue will be allocated to local infrastructure projects, including the development of a new motorsport academy in Kuala Lumpur.

For now, the focus remains on the 2026 event, with organizers working to ensure a seamless return. As Domenicali noted, “Malaysia’s return is not just about adding another race—it’s about building a long-term relationship with a region that has a deep passion for motorsport.”