KUALA LUMPUR – Formula 1 and the FIA have confirmed that Malaysia will return to the championship calendar in 2026, with the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) set to host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2 to 4.
In a joint statement, the organisers said the race will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, with the event remaining officially known as the Bahrain Grand Prix hosted by Malaysia, rather than being rebranded as the Malaysian Grand Prix.
The agreement, which is subject to final approvals and sign-off by the World Motor Sport Council, was reached between Formula 1, the FIA, the Bahrain and Malaysian governments.
It allows Formula 1 to preserve the Bahrain round of the championship, which had been at risk of cancellation, while maintaining the remainder of the 2026 calendar.
Sepang, which first hosted Formula 1 in 1999, is regarded as one of the sport’s most challenging and iconic circuits, renowned for its demanding layout, passionate supporters and unpredictable weather conditions.
Details on ticket sales will be announced at a later date.
Formula 1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said the arrangement reflected the sport’s ability to adapt and find solutions in challenging circumstances.
“We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026. Once again, the sport has demonstrated its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1.
“I would like to express our sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as well as their respective governments for making this extraordinary outcome possible through their vision, commitment, and decisive action.
“Of course, I would also like to thank FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration throughout the process.
“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.”
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the return to Sepang highlighted the strong partnership between Formula 1, the governing body and Malaysia’s motorsport community.
“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang circuit later this year.
“Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans remaining our highest priority.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of Formula 1 and the return of the Championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport.
“My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, for their vision and support in making this possible. We look forward to welcoming the global motorsport community back to Sepang.”
Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Ministe Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said the event reflected the close ties between Bahrain and Malaysia.
“With the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar, King of Malaysia, and building on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries, I am proud to join Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia in announcing that Bahrain will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, from 2 to 4 October 2026.
“This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport. Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for Formula 1, and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved.
“I offer my sincere appreciation to F1, the FIA, Bahrain International Circuit, Sepang International Circuit, and the teams for their support in helping us deliver an exciting weekend of racing.”
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia was honoured to assist Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in delivering the race at Sepang.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as the Government and people of Bahrain, for the trust and confidence they have placed in Malaysia.
“We are honoured to support the Kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit this year.
“This collaboration is more than the staging of a world-class sporting event. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, while reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness and capability to host major international events.
“Malaysia stands ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world back to Sepang. We look forward to showcasing our world-class infrastructure, operational excellence and warm hospitality, while further strengthening the bonds between our two nations through this special occasion.”
The announcement follows reports by Scoop that Malaysia was in discussions to stage a replacement Formula 1 race after Bahrain’s participation was placed under scrutiny amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Meetings between the Youth and Sports Ministry and the FIA on Saturday indicated that talks had progressed positively, following earlier discussions in London involving the FIA and Sepang International Circuit.
The proposed race date of October 2 to 4 places the event one week before the Singapore Grand Prix.
Malaysia had previously hosted the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang from 1999 until 2017, with the circuit earning a reputation as one of Asia’s premier motorsport venues.
The race was removed from the calendar after the 2017 season due to escalating hosting costs and declining attendance.
Anwar had also hinted earlier that an announcement regarding Formula 1 would be made soon, although he stopped short of confirming Malaysia’s return.
“F1, we will announce on Sunday,” Anwar told reporters after an event in Penang.
Among the considerations for Malaysia was the financial arrangement, including the level of support from Formula 1’s governing bodies, as hosting a Grand Prix can involve significant costs, including fees reportedly ranging between USD25 million and USD30 million. – July 26, 2026