Malaysia returns as F1 venue hosting 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix

Formula 1 has confirmed Malaysia will return to the calendar in 2026 as a replacement for the Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place in October.

Feature image credit: Formula 1

Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, F1 has confirmed Malaysia’s fan-favourite circuit Sepang, will be featured on the calendar as a replacement for the cancelled Bahrain Grand Prix, which was set to take place in April this year.

The Sepang race will not, however, be named the Malaysian Grand Prix but instead the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

It comes after the sport was forced to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian events after Iran began attacking its neighbouring countries, such as the two F1-hosting countries, in retaliation for the United States and Israeli attacks.

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“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.

“Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue.

“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.”

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The announcement comes in agreement with F1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain and the Government of Malaysia, which allows the grand prix to take place, which would not have been possible thanks to the current geopolitical climate.

The returning venue will take place from October 2 to October 4, 2026, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix.

It remains subject to approval with final agreements and an official sign-off, including approval from the World Motor Sport Council.

Malaysia’s return to the Sport will be its first appearance since it was removed from the calendar following the 2017 season, last won by Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen.

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Kamron Kent

Hi, I’m Kamron. I created ApexMotorsports.co.uk in the dying embers of the 2021 Formula 1 world championship. It allowed me freedom to write whatever I wanted to write about which was all things motorsports, my passion.

I have put a lot of effort in over the years to keep this website in its best shape and I’ve loved seeing the brand grow consistently, month-on-month, year-on-year. My ambition is to keep watching this brand grow into a primary outlet of news for all things motorsports whilst fueling my desire to pursue a career in sports journalism, specialising in motorsports.

Kamron Kent

Hi, I'm Kamron. I created ApexMotorsports.co.uk in the dying embers of the 2021 Formula 1 world championship. It allowed me freedom to write whatever I wanted to write about which was all things motorsports, my passion. I have put a lot of effort in over the years to keep this website in its best shape and I've loved seeing the brand grow consistently, month-on-month, year-on-year. My ambition is to keep watching this brand grow into a primary outlet of news for all things motorsports whilst fueling my desire to pursue a career in sports journalism, specialising in motorsports.