By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula One Management have confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from 2–4 October 2026, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.
The event, which is subject to final agreements and official sign-off, including the approval of the World Motor Sport Council, will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
This solution demonstrates Formula 1’s ability to adapt quickly and find a way to ensure that the sport’s ecosystem of the sport continue to benefit from an extensive and exciting 2026 schedule, as well as recognising Bahrain’s place on the calendar and the generosity of Malaysia in making the replacement possible.
This agreement, reached between the FIA, FOM, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, His Majesty the King of Malaysia, and their respective governments, allows Formula 1 to preserve a Grand Prix that would otherwise have not happened. The rest of the schedule for 2026 remains unchanged.
This will be welcome news for Formula 1 fans around the world. Sepang is one of Formula 1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather, making it an ideal venue to host this round of the Championship.
His Excellency, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said: “I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang International 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 One 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.”
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, said: “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 Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, said: “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.”
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026. We have all shown once again that Formula 1 can adapt, find solutions and deliver results and give a great surprise to everyone following our sport.
“I would like to express our sincere thanks to Bahrain and Malaysia, notably His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the King and Prime Minister of Malaysia for their vision, passion and decisive action in making this exciting moment possible.
“I also want to thank the President of the FIA, His Excellency Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration. Most importantly, this is excellent news for our fans, who will continue to enjoy a packed calendar and the opportunity to see Formula 1 return to one of the sport’s most iconic circuits. Malaysia is an incredible country and Sepang has a rich history in Formula 1 and will provide a fantastic spectacle for fans both at the track and watching around the world.”