Sepang to host 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix as F1 returns to Malaysia for first time since 2017

Formula 1 will return to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit for the first time since 2017, with the venue confirmed as the host of the relocated 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix on 2-4 October. The announcement resolves one of the most significant scheduling disruptions in the sport’s recent history, caused by the US-Israeli war on Iran destabilising the entire Middle East region.

The 2026 calendar had originally included four rounds in the Middle East, but both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian grands prix were cancelled, leaving a five-week gap in April. F1 moved quickly to find alternatives, and the proximity of Sepang — just 300km from Singapore, which retains its own round — made Malaysia a logical solution. Bahrain remained committed to keeping a race on the calendar and reached an agreement with the FIA, F1, and Malaysian organisers to have Sepang host its grand prix.

The confirmed slot slots into a triple-header alongside Baku and Singapore from late September into mid-October. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is scheduled for a Saturday, easing the logistical demands of the run.

“We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026,” said F1 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. 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.”

Sepang hosted F1 every year from 1999 to 2017 before terminating its contract early, with declining ticket sales, falling TV ratings, and dissatisfaction with its commercial arrangement under Bernie Ecclestone’s Formula One Management cited as the reasons. The 2017 race, which was Pierre Gasly’s F1 debut, proved to be the last.

At least 10 drivers currently on the grid have raced at Sepang before. Sebastian Vettel holds the circuit record with four victories, while Fernando Alonso leads active drivers with three wins. Lewis Hamilton claimed a record five pole positions at the track but converted only one into a race win; his 2016 engine failure there famously played a decisive role in his championship defeat to Nico Rosberg.

F1 is maintaining a theoretical 23-race calendar for 2026, with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi season-ending rounds currently unchanged. However, their status remains subject to developments in the Iran conflict, and alternative options are understood to be under consideration.