Malaysia to Host Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang in 2026 as Formula 1 Confirms Calendar Change

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia will make a surprise return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2026 after Formula 1 and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced that the country will host the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from Oct. 2–4, 2026.

The race, officially titled the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, pending final contractual agreements and approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

The unprecedented arrangement was reached between Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia after ongoing regional challenges made it impossible for Bahrain to stage the event at its home circuit while preserving the championship schedule.

Formula 1 said the agreement ensures the Bahrain Grand Prix remains on the 2026 calendar without requiring broader changes to the season schedule.