F1 returns to Sepang as Malaysia steps in to host 2026 Bahrain GP, 2nd-4th October

Formula 1 is officially heading back to Malaysia. In a landmark announcement, Formula 1 and the FIA have officially confirmed that the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will instead be held at our beloved Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026, marking the championship's long-awaited return to one of its most celebrated venues.

The race, which remains subject to the completion of final agreements and formal approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, will officially be known as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. It will occupy its original slot on the 2026 Formula 1 calendar between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix, with no other changes to the championship schedule.

The unique arrangement was reached through close cooperation between Formula 1, the FIA, the Governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, ensuring the Bahrain Grand Prix remains on the calendar despite circumstances that would have otherwise prevented the event from taking place in Bahrain.

For Malaysian motorsport fans, the announcement represents the return of Formula 1 to Sepang for the first time since the 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix. First introduced to the championship in 1999, Sepang quickly established itself as one of Formula 1's most demanding circuits, renowned for its fast sweeping corners, long straights, punishing tropical heat, and unpredictable weather conditions that have often produced dramatic races.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali noted that the return to Malaysia represents an exciting moment for the sport and thanked the leadership of both Bahrain and Malaysia, alongside the FIA, for their cooperation in making the extraordinary arrangement possible. Domenicali added that Sepang remains one of Formula 1's most iconic venues and believes the circuit will once again provide spectacular racing while delivering an unforgettable experience for spectators both at the venue and watching around the world.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed those sentiments, highlighting the extensive collaboration between the governing body, Formula One Management and officials in Bahrain throughout the planning process.

He stressed that the wellbeing and safety of teams, race officials, volunteers and fans remained the highest priority throughout discussions, while describing Sepang's return to the Formula 1 calendar as recognition of Malaysia's long-standing contribution to the sport. Ben Sulayem also praised the close relationship between the FIA, the Motorsports Association of Malaysia and the Malaysian Government, saying the race demonstrates the strength of international cooperation within global motorsport.

Malaysia's PMX, Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, likewise welcomed the opportunity to host the event, expressing appreciation to Bahrain for its confidence in Malaysia's ability to stage a world-class Formula 1 weekend.

Anwar said the country is ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and thousands of fans back to Sepang, showcasing Malaysia's world-class infrastructure, operational expertise and renowned hospitality to a global audience.

The announcement is expected to generate enormous excitement among Malaysian motorsport enthusiasts, many of whom have long hoped to see Formula 1 return after the country's previous stint on the calendar ended in 2017. With Sepang widely regarded as one of the finest circuits in modern Formula 1 history, its comeback promises to be one of the standout moments of the 2026 season. Formula 1 has also confirmed that ticketing information and further event details will be announced in the coming weeks.