KUALA LUMPUR – The return of Formula 1 to the Sepang International Circuit has led to a schedule adjustment for the Thailand Super Series, as the Malaysian venue prepares to welcome the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix in October.
The Thailand Super Series was originally set to hold two rounds at Sepang this year, but the fourth round, scheduled for September 18-20, will now be postponed to make way for extensive preparations ahead of Formula 1’s return to Malaysia, the Mirror UK reported.
The circuit had been selected to host the rescheduled 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix after the original race in the Gulf region was cancelled due to ongoing security concerns in the Middle East. The Sepang event will take place from October 2 to 4, marking the first Formula 1 race at the Malaysian circuit since 2017.
Preparations for the prestigious global motorsport event will include surface cleaning, safety inspections and system checks to ensure the circuit meets Formula 1 and FIA requirements.
A letter addressed to “competitors and partners” of the Thailand Super Series and signed by vice president Preeda Tantemsapya said the decision was made following the official announcement by Formula 1 and the FIA confirming Malaysia as the host venue.
“The official announcement made by Formula 1 and the FIA yesterday, that Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit on October 2-4 … means the circuit will have to be closed for strict safety, surface cleaning and system checks in preparation for the Formula 1 event.
“Hence, we regret to inform you that we have received notification from the circuit management that they are unable to proceed with the Sepang event originally scheduled for September 18-20. Following receipt of this notification, we are actively working with different parties, looking at all the possible alternative dates and plan to reschedule the event.”
The Thailand Super Series organisers also expressed appreciation to teams, competitors and partners for their understanding while discussions continue on a replacement date.
“We sincerely apologise for this unforeseen situation beyond our control and appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support. Further updates will be announced as soon as they become available. Thank you for your continued trust and cooperation.”
The schedule change highlights the significance of Malaysia’s return to the Formula 1 calendar, with Sepang undergoing renewed preparations to host one of the world’s biggest sporting events after a nine-year absence.
The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be held between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix, creating a Southeast Asian leg of the season that brings Formula 1 back to Malaysian fans.
While Formula 1 officials hope the Sepang race will be the final adjustment to the 2026 calendar, uncertainty remains over the final two rounds in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates due to continued regional instability.
F1 and the FIA will continue monitoring the security situation before determining whether those races can proceed as planned, with teams expected to begin shipping equipment to the Gulf region from September. – July 28, 2026