In one of the most unexpected and exciting announcements of the year, Formula 1 and the FIA have officially confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from October 2-4, 2026 — the first F1 race on Malaysian soil since 2017.
But how did we get here? The story behind this announcement is as dramatic as anything that happens on the track.
The Middle East Crisis That Shook the F1 Calendar
The 2026 Formula 1 season was supposed to include back-to-back races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April. Both events were eagerly anticipated — Bahrain in particular has been one of F1’s most beloved venues since hosting the first-ever Grand Prix in the region back in 2004.
But the escalating conflict in the Middle East — triggered by US-Israeli military action against Iran, which responded with missile strikes against Gulf states including Bahrain — made it impossible to stage either race safely. With the safety and wellbeing of teams, drivers, volunteers, officials and fans as the top priority, both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled, reducing the 2026 F1 calendar from 24 to just 22 rounds and leaving a month-long gap in the racing schedule.
It was a sobering moment for the sport — and a reminder that even the world’s most meticulously planned sporting calendar is not immune to global events.
Finding a Solution
With the conflict showing no signs of easing, Formula 1 explored every possible option to reinstate the Bahrain Grand Prix later in the season. A temporary ceasefire had briefly raised hopes of holding the race back in Bahrain in October — but fresh fighting eliminated that prospect entirely.
The sport needed a Plan B — and fast.
Malaysia emerged as the strongest candidate. Sepang International Circuit, which hosted F1 every year from 1999 to 2017, ticked every box — a world-class facility, passionate fanbase, experienced organisers and a logical slot in the calendar between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix. In what became a remarkable example of international cooperation, the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia worked together to make it happen — with Bahrain funding the event at Sepang as a show of enduring commitment to Formula 1.
The Official Announcement
On July 26, 2026, Formula 1 and the FIA officially confirmed the news — the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia would take place at Sepang from October 2-4, restoring the 2026 season to 23 races.
The race will retain the Bahrain Grand Prix name and title sponsorship — a nod to Bahrain’s continued ownership of and passion for the event, even as it takes place nearly 4,000 miles away from Sakhir.
PM Anwar Ibrahim said: “We are honoured to support the Kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting this event. This collaboration 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.”
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added: “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.”
Welcome Back, Sepang
For Malaysian F1 fans, this is a moment nine years in the making. The final Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017 — won by Max Verstappen — was a bittersweet farewell to a circuit that had given the sport some of its most memorable moments. Lewis Hamilton’s record five pole positions at Sepang. Sebastian Vettel’s four victories. The unpredictable tropical weather that kept everyone on their toes.
Now, even if just for one race, the engines roar again at Sepang. And while this is officially a one-off event, one has to wonder — could this be the spark that brings F1 back to Malaysia permanently?
Ticket information will be announced soon. Watch this space. 🏁