Malaysia will host the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang from October 2-4, 2026, after the race was cancelled in April due to the Middle East war. Formula 1 organisers confirmed the move on Sunday, marking Sepang’s return to the calendar for the first time since 2017. Malaysian Grand Prix Positioned between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, this event, which is subject to final agreements and official sign-off, will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
The original F1 calendar featured 24 races but those in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled because of the war. Upcoming events in neighbouring Qatar and Abu Dhabi also remain in doubt. Agreement Positioned between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, this event, which is subject to final agreements and official sign-off, will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
“This agreement, reached between Formula 1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain, and the Government of Malaysia, allows Formula 1 to preserve a Grand Prix that would otherwise not have happened. The rest of the schedule for 2026 remains unchanged,” F1 and motorsport’s world governing body said in a statement. Sepang – which made its debut as an F1 venue in 1999 – is one of Formula 1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather.
Information regarding the release of tickets for the event will be announced soon. F1 Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, welcomed the news. “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,” Domenicali said. Sepang Ben Sulayem was also proud of the news.
“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang circuit la… Gulf Air serves as the official sponsor of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. (Gulf Air pic)MANAMA: Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, announced its intention to operate direct flights to Kuala Lumpur following the announcement that the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will host the 2026 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from Oct 2 to 4, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported.The airline is the official sponsor of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.According to Gulf Air, the move is expected to strengthen air connectivity between the two countries and provide motorsport fans and travellers with a seamless gateway to enjoy the atmosphere of the race.The airline’s partnership with Formula 1 dates back to the first Grand Prix race in the Gulf region in 2004, reflecting the strength and continuity of the partnership.As the official sponsor of the race, Gulf Air continues to take pride in supporting the event and bringing Bahraini hospitality to Malaysia.Details of flights for the event will be announced soon.
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