Formula 1 will make a surprise return to the Sepang International Circuit in 2026 after it was confirmed that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2 to October 4.
The race, which remains subject to final approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council and the completion of formal agreements, will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix on the existing 2026 Formula 1 calendar. No other changes to the schedule have been announced.
The race will officially be known as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, following an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia. The arrangement assures that Bahrain retains its place on the 2026 calendar despite circumstances that would have otherwise prevented the country from staging its home Grand Prix.
Malaysian Grand Prix
Sepang
Laps 56
First Grand Prix 1999
Circuit Length 5.543 km
Race Distance 310.408 km
The announcement marks Formula 1’s return to Sepang for the first time since 2017. The Malaysian Grand Prix was a fixture on the World Championship calendar from 1999 until 2017, with the Hermann Tilke-designed circuit earning a reputation as one of the sport’s most demanding venues thanks to its combination of high-speed corners, technical sections and unpredictable tropical weather.
Sepang has hosted numerous memorable races throughout its Formula 1 history, including Michael Schumacher‘s return from injury in 1999, Fernando Alonso‘s first victory for Renault in 2005, Sebastian Vettel’s controversial “Multi 21” win in 2013, and Max Verstappen‘s victory in what proved to be the circuit’s most recent Formula 1 race in 2017.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the agreement as an example of the championship’s ability to adapt and preserve a full calendar while also bringing the sport back to one of its most popular former venues.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem echoed those sentiments, praising the cooperation between Formula 1, the FIA and both governments, while highlighting Malaysia’s long-standing place in Formula 1 history and Sepang’s significance within the championship.
Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said the agreement reflected the close relationship between Bahrain and Malaysia and would allow Formula 1 fans to continue enjoying a full championship calendar despite ongoing regional challenges.
Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim welcomed Formula 1’s return to Sepang, describing the event as an opportunity to showcase the country’s world-class facilities and hospitality while strengthening ties between Malaysia and Bahrain.
Further details are expected to be announced in due course.
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