Malaysia to host Bahrain GP

Malaysia to host Bahrain GP

Formula 1 is set to return to Malaysia after a nine-year absence, with the Sepang International Circuit hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix on October 4, 2026. The announcement comes as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which led to the cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix earlier this year.

The event, officially titled the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, with the remainder of the 2026 calendar unchanged. The agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia ensures that the Bahrain Grand Prix remains on the 2026 calendar, despite regional challenges that would have otherwise prevented the race from taking place in Bahrain.

According to Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the event highlights Bahrain's enduring passion for Formula 1 and reflects the close ties between Bahrain and Malaysia. Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the country is honored to support Bahrain, Formula 1, and the FIA by hosting the race at Sepang, describing the collaboration as a reflection of the enduring friendship, mutual trust, and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated that the governing body and Formula One Management explored every possible option while keeping the safety and wellbeing of teams, officials, volunteers, and fans as the highest priority. Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the announcement as "fantastic news" for fans, saying the sport has once again shown its ability to adapt and deliver a complete championship schedule.

The arrangement means that the 2026 season will maintain a 23-race calendar, with Sepang providing a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans. However, uncertainty remains over the season-ending races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi due to the continuing regional conflict. Formula 1 is working on contingency plans, with Italy's Imola considered the leading replacement venue, should either event prove impossible to stage.

Imola is seen as a viable option due to its existing infrastructure and experience in hosting major motorsport events. The fact that F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is from Imola adds to the appeal of concluding the season there. Formula 1 is keen to stage at least 21 races this season.

The World Endurance Championship is set to scrap its plans to return to the Middle East at the end of the year due to the resumption of hostilities in the region. WEC was due to go to Qatar on October 24 and finish its season in Bahrain on November 7 but is expected to announce that it will replace these races with Barcelona in Spain and Monza in Italy.

While the Malaysia agreement resolves one gap in the calendar, the situation remains fluid, and the final decision on the conclusion of the season may not arrive until early October. For now, the F1 community can look forward to an unexpected but welcome return to Sepang, with the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia set to provide an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1.