Malaysia confirmed to host Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang circuit

Dhaka: Formula 1 and the FIA have confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, slotted between the Azerbaijan and Singapore rounds on the 2026 calendar.

According to an official announcement, the event, pending final agreements and sign-off from the World Motor Sport Council, will be branded the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

The arrangement was reached jointly by Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia. It allowed the sport to retain a race on the calendar that would otherwise have been dropped, while the rest of the 2026 schedule stays unchanged.

Sepang, which first joined the F1 calendar in 1999, is regarded as one of the sport's most demanding and storied venues, known for enthusiastic crowds, close racing, and unpredictable tropical weather. Details on ticket sales are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the sport had again shown its ability to adapt and deliver, calling the move an exciting development for fans who will get a full 2026 calendar along with a return to a historic circuit.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the collaboration reflected the FIA's long-standing ties with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia and the Malaysian government, along with broader international cooperation within the sport.

Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, said the deal built on close relations between Bahrain and Malaysia. He added that Bahrain considers itself a pillar of stability for Formula 1 amid regional challenges and remains committed to delivering a successful race.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his country was honored to support Bahrain, Formula 1, and the FIA in staging the event at Sepang. He described the arrangement as more than a sporting fixture, calling it a reflection of the friendship and trust between the two nations.

Anwar added that Malaysia was ready to welcome F1 teams and fans back to Sepang and looked forward to showcasing the country's infrastructure and hospitality while deepening ties with Bahrain through the race weekend.