Malaysia Steps In For Bahrain Grand Prix
Malaysia will host a Formula 1 race for the first time since 2017 when the Sepang International Circuit stages the Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2-4. The Gulf state is funding the event while retaining naming rights after ongoing conflict in the Middle East forced the cancellation of April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali said the sport had demonstrated its ability to adapt and deliver solutions.
Calendar Implications And Regional Partnership
The addition creates a triple-header alongside rounds in Baku and Singapore and brings the 2026 schedule to 23 races pending World Motor Sport Council approval. Bahrain Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa described the arrangement as building on close relations between the two nations, while Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the country stands ready to showcase its infrastructure and hospitality.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the governing body had worked tirelessly to explore every option with safety as the highest priority. The change leaves major doubt over whether the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi can proceed as planned in late November and early December.
Formula 1 bosses confirmed the schedule for the remainder of the season remains unchanged ahead of the summer break. The season resumes with the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21-23, with every session live on Sky Sports F1.