Formula 1 has confirmed that Malaysia will host the "Bahrain Grand Prix" on October 4, 2026 at the Sepang International Circuit, marking the track's return to the calendar for the first time since 2017. The race, which expands the schedule to 23 rounds, slots between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on September 26 and the Singapore Grand Prix on October 11, creating a triple-header.
The unusual arrangement was necessitated by continued conflict in the Middle East, which forced the cancellation of the original Bahrain Grand Prix scheduled for April. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was also cancelled, reducing the calendar from 24 to 22 races and creating a month-long break in April.
The event carries the anomalous title because Bahrain will fund the race at Sepang, with the Gulf state's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa describing it as building "on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries."
"We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026," said Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali. "Once again, the sport has demonstrated its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1."
Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim added: "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."
The calendar change still requires approval from the World Motor Sport Council, although that step is considered a formality. Doubts remain over whether the final two rounds of the season in Qatar (November 27-29) and Abu Dhabi (December 4-6) will be able to proceed at their planned venues.
Sources
- [Sky Sports F1 — Malaysia added to 2026 F1 calendar in October to host postponed Bahrain GP](https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13566600/malaysia-added-to-2026-f1-calendar-in-october-to-host-postponed-bahrain-gp-amid-continued-conflict-in-middle-east)
- [Crash.net — Malaysia F1 return confirmed with bizarre race title](https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1101834/1/malaysia-f1-return-confirmed-bizarre-race-title)
