Formula 1 and motorsport's governing body, the FIA, have confirmed that Malaysia will host this year's Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026. The race will officially be known as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia and will slot into the calendar between the Azerbaijan and Singapore rounds. It marks the first Formula 1 race at Sepang since 2017, when the Malaysian Grand Prix was last held there.

The arrangement came about after the original Bahrain Grand Prix was postponed following disruption in the Middle East, which also affected the Saudi Arabian round earlier in the season. Rather than losing the race from the calendar entirely, Bahrain, Malaysia, Formula 1 and the FIA worked out an agreement to relocate it to Sepang instead.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed the news, describing it as a reflection of the close ties between Malaysia and Bahrain and a sign of the country's readiness to host major international sporting events. Sepang, which made its Formula 1 debut in 1999, is well known among fans and teams for its challenging layout and famously unpredictable tropical weather, and organisers expect strong local interest once ticket sales open.

Key Details

  • Race dates: October 2–4, 2026
  • Official name: Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
  • First Formula 1 race at Sepang since 2017

Background

  • The original Bahrain Grand Prix was postponed amid disruption in the Middle East
  • The Saudi Arabian round earlier in the season was also affected
  • Bahrain, Malaysia, Formula 1 and the FIA agreed to relocate the race rather than cancel it
  • Sepang made its F1 debut in 1999 and is known for its challenging layout and unpredictable tropical weather

Reactions

  • PM Anwar Ibrahim welcomed the news, citing close Malaysia–Bahrain ties
  • Organisers expect strong local demand once ticket sales open