F1 Returns to Malaysia: Sepang to Host 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix

Formula 1 will return to Malaysia for the 2026 season to host the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4. According to Sport Industry Group, the event will retain the Bahrain Grand Prix title and continue to receive funding from Bahrain after regional disruptions forced the postponement of the original race.

Sepang International Circuit hosts Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026

The decision to move the event to Malaysia follows Formula 1’s efforts to find a viable alternative venue after disruption to races in the Middle East. The race is scheduled for the first weekend of October 2026, marking the first time the sport has returned to Malaysia since 2017. This addition is subject to final approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council, according to Sport Industry Group.

The revised 2026 calendar will increase to 23 races if the council approves the addition. The event is positioned between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, which creates a sequence of three consecutive race weekends across Asia.

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.
— Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1 President

Logistics and infrastructure of the Malaysian return

Sepang International Circuit hosted Formula 1 from 1999 until 2017. Sport Industry Group reports that the venue was selected partly because it possesses the existing infrastructure required to stage a Grand Prix on short notice. Several other venues reportedly expressed interest in hosting the replacement race, indicating high demand for spots on the global calendar.

Formula 1 organizers stated they are continuing to monitor the status of other remaining Middle East events scheduled for later in the season. The move to Sepang reflects the organization’s strategy to balance an expanding global footprint with the operational challenges of an international schedule.

Impact on the 2026 Formula 1 Calendar

The inclusion of the Malaysia-based race adds a significant stop for British teams and drivers, as well as domestic broadcast partners in the UK. By maintaining the Bahrain Grand Prix title and funding despite the change in geography, the sport preserves the commercial agreements associated with the event while shifting the physical location to ensure the race can proceed.

The 2026 schedule now features a concentrated Asian leg, linking Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Singapore in a tight logistical window.