Formula 1 is considering the return of the Malaysian Grand Prix to the 2026 calendar as a replacement race, after several rounds were cancelled earlier this season.
According to Sky Sports F1, F1 bosses are in talks with Malaysian Grand Prix organisers to bring Sepang back, after Bahrain was initially considered for the October 4 slot but escalating conflict in the Middle East made that option unfeasible.
Malaysia would slot in between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix (September 26) and the Singapore Grand Prix (October 11), occupying the October 4 date. Sepang was among the circuits that volunteered to host a replacement race.
The last Malaysian Grand Prix took place in 2017, won by Max Verstappen, and was renowned as one of the toughest events on the calendar due to tropical heat and humidity.
The Middle East situation could also impact the final two races of the season, Qatar (November 29) and Abu Dhabi (December 6). If further cancellations occur, alternative options would include Portimao in Portugal and Istanbul in Turkey.
Mercedes driver George Russell commented: "I'd love to have a 24-race season and get as many races as possible. I want to go racing, I love racing, and I hope, if we don't race in the Middle East, there's two replacements. I'd be happy to go racing every weekend if I could."
Sources
- [Sky Sports F1](https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13566259/malaysian-gp-formula-1-considering-sepang-return-to-2026-calendar-as-replacement-race-before-singapore-grand-prix)
