F1 Confirms Bahrain Grand Prix Will Run at Sepang in Malaysia: New Dates Revealed
· Yahoo Sports
Formula 1 has found a home for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix – just not in Bahrain. Under a new arrangement involving the governments of both Bahrain and Malaysia, it has been confirmed that the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia will take place at Sepang International Circuit on the October 2–4 weekend, slotting into the gap between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and Singapore. The deal restores the 2026 season to 23 races and is subject to final sign-off, including formal approval from the World Motor Sport Council.
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Both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled after Iran launched missile strikes against Gulf states, including Bahrain, rendering it unfeasible to hold either race – the Bahrain event had been set to take place at Sakhir in April. A temporary ceasefire had raised the possibility of holding the race in Bahrain in October, but fresh fighting eliminated that prospect.
Three conditions had to be met for a replacement venue: FIA Grade 1 certification, an available window in the schedule, and the operational capacity to stage a race on short notice. Sepang checked every box.
Why It’s the Bahrain GP, Not the Malaysian GP
Malaysia and Sepang have agreed to host the race under Bahrain’s banner, allowing Bahrain to retain its place on the calendar while the circuit takes on the financial and logistical weight of a late-added event. Bahrain is covering a significant share of the costs associated with the arrangement. Both governments signed off on the setup, and it should be seen as a relocated edition of the Bahraini race rather than a revival of the old Malaysian Grand Prix – even though, practically speaking, it’s Formula 1 returning to Sepang for the first time since 2017 after a nine-year absence.
Sepang’s previous disappearance from the schedule had little to do with the circuit’s appeal – it remained popular with drivers and teams – but rather came down to hosting costs that could not be made to work financially. Sepang has maintained its FIA Grade 1 licence and kept hosting MotoGP and other top-tier international motorsport events in the years since F1’s departure. Sepang’s proximity to Singapore – under an hour by air – means the consecutive-race travel demands are far simpler than they would have been with a European alternative.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed the news: “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.”
Ticket information will follow. The rest of the 2026 schedule stays as is.
For a sport that lost two races to a regional conflict with little warning, landing a 23-race season with a venue that actually has history and goodwill attached to it is about as clean an outcome as anyone could have drawn up. Sepang holds 130,000 spectators. It’s going to be loud.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, said:
“With the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar, King of Malaysia, and building on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries, I am proud to join Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia in announcing that Bahrain will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, from 2 to 4 October 2026.
“This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport.
“Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for Formula 1, and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved.
“I offer my sincere appreciation to F1, the FIA, Bahrain International Circuit, Sepang International Circuit, and the teams for their support in helping us deliver an exciting weekend of racing.”
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, said:
“I extend my deepest appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as the Government and people of Bahrain, for the trust and confidence they have placed in Malaysia. We are honoured to support the Kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit this year.
“This collaboration is more than the staging of a world-class sporting event. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, while reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness and capability to host major international events.
“Malaysia stands ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world back to Sepang. We look forward to showcasing our world-class infrastructure, operational excellence and warm hospitality, while further strengthening the bonds between our two nations through this special occasion.”
His Excellency, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said:
“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 One 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.”