F1 brings back fan-favourite circuit as replacement round

Malaysia returns to F1 for the first time since 2017 as a stand-in for the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was postponed amid the conflict in the Middle East.

Originally scheduled for April, along with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix it could not go ahead due to safety concerns in the region following the start of the war in February.

Therefore, to minimise the reduction of rounds on the F1 calendar, Sepang will act as a replacement, taking its place on the schedule from 2-4 October, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, forming a triple-header.

The round will be called the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, making it a true stand-in.

As per the current Concorde Agreement between Formula 1 Management (FOM), the FIA and the 11 F1 teams, the world championship is required to have at least 21 rounds.

With the final two events of the season, in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, respectively, in jeopardy, F1 was facing just 20 confirmed rounds. The return of the Malaysia round satisfies that criterion.

It is rumoured that the Portuguese Grand Prix or a return to Imola is being lined up as a 22nd and final round of the campaign, filling the slot vacated by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December, two weeks after the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Portimao is scheduled to return in 2027 already, and the Algarve is one of the few viable locations with an appropriate climate for F1 at that time of year, whilst Imola stepped in at short notice to host a race in the 2020 COVID season, and fell off the calendar after 2025.

Return to a great venue

Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, said: "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.”