Bahrain Grand Prix Moves to Malaysia's Sepang Circuit in 2026

The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia from October 2 to 4, 2026. This announcement was made by Formula 1 and the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) on Sunday. The event will be known as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, following an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia.

The decision to move the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia was made due to regional challenges that would have otherwise prevented the race from taking place in Bahrain. The arrangement ensures that the Bahrain Grand Prix remains on the 2026 calendar.

The Sepang International Circuit, which last hosted a Formula 1 race in 2017, is considered one of the most demanding circuits in the sport due to its high-speed layout, tropical weather, and enthusiastic fan base. The circuit has a long history of hosting Formula 1 races, and its return to the calendar is expected to be a major boost for the sport in the region.

Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa welcomed the decision, saying that it highlighted Bahrain's enduring passion for Formula 1 and reflected the close ties between Bahrain and Malaysia. He also stated that Bahrain would continue to do everything in its power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved.

Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the country was honored to support Bahrain, Formula 1, and the FIA by hosting the race at Sepang. He added that the collaboration was more than just the staging of a world-class sporting event, but also reflected the enduring friendship, mutual trust, and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said that the governing body and Formula One Management had explored every possible option while keeping the safety and wellbeing of teams, officials, volunteers, and fans as the highest priority. He added that Formula 1's return to Sepang demonstrated Malaysia's continued commitment to the sport and the strength of international cooperation.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali described the announcement as 'fantastic news' for fans, saying that the sport had once again shown its ability to adapt and deliver a complete championship schedule. He also praised Malaysia as an incredible country and welcomed the return of the Sepang circuit to the Formula 1 calendar.

The 2026 Formula 1 calendar will remain largely unchanged, with the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia taking place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix. The event is subject to the completion of final agreements and approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

The return of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia is a significant development for the sport, and it is expected to attract a large following from fans in the region. The event will be a major boost for the local economy, and it will also provide a unique opportunity for fans to experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing.

In conclusion, the move of the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia's Sepang Circuit in 2026 is a major development for the sport, and it reflects the close ties between Bahrain and Malaysia. The event is expected to be a major success, and it will provide a unique opportunity for fans to experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing.

The significance of this event for Malaysia and the region cannot be overstated. It will provide a major boost to the local economy, and it will also promote the country as a major destination for international sporting events. The event will also provide a unique opportunity for fans to experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing, and it will help to promote the sport in the region.

Overall, the return of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia is a major development for the sport, and it is expected to be a major success. The event will provide a unique opportunity for fans to experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing, and it will help to promote the sport in the region.