Bahrain Grand Prix returns for 2026, taking place in Malaysia
Formula 1 and the FIA have officially confirmed that the Bahrain Grand Prix will feature on the 2026 racing calendar once more — though not at its traditional home in the Gulf kingdom, reports BritPanorama.
Instead, the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, with the event scheduled from 2-4 October. Bahrain is financing the relocated race, marking a significant shift in the hosting arrangements for this event.
This announcement signifies a notable return for Sepang, which last hosted an F1 race in 2017. Managing to secure a place in the autumn segment of the season, Sepang will slot in between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races. The agreement has been reached among F1, the FIA, and the governments of both Bahrain and Malaysia, although it remains subject to ratification.
The removal of Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races from the calendar in April 2025, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, reduced the season to 22 events, prompting F1 to seek replacement venues. The return of Sepang would reinstate the calendar to 23 races.
Max Verstappen achieved his second career victory at Sepang during its final F1 event in 2017, finishing in front of Lewis Hamilton. Despite its popularity among drivers and teams, rising hosting fees and decreasing ticket sales eventually made the event unsustainable by 2017.
F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed enthusiasm about Malaysia hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix again, stating, “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.” He acknowledged the contributions from King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and other officials for facilitating the agreement.
While the deal is still pending final agreements and approval from the World Motor Sport Council, the return to Sepang is a reminder of how easily the calendar can shift amidst changing global circumstances. As expectations rise for a thrilling weekend in Malaysia, motorsport fans are hopeful the iconic circuit will deliver the excitement that has characterised F1 racing.
In the backdrop of a changing landscape, the race also reflects the unique dynamics of sport navigating through politics, with each venue representing a story of its own — an unfolding narrative that continues to engage fans around the world.
