Malaysia added to 2026 F1 calendar in October to host postponed Bahrain GP amid continued conflict in Middle East
Malaysia will host an F1 race for the first time since 2017; the October event will still be titled the 'Bahrain Grand Prix' as the Gulf state is funding the race; watch all the remaining 2026 races live on Sky Sports F1, starting with the Dutch GP from August 21-23
Sunday 26 July 2026 13:04, UK
Formula 1 has added Malaysia to its 2026 schedule as the host of the Bahrain Grand Prix that was postponed earlier in the season.
The sport's bosses had hoped to reinstate the event to the calendar, but the continuation of conflict in the Middle East, which was the original cause of the cancellation of April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, has forced a change of plan.
Instead, Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit will host an event that will still be titled the 'Bahrain Grand Prix', with the Gulf state funding the race in a show of support for the sport.
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The event, which will see Malaysia host a race for the first time since 2017, is scheduled to take place from October 2-4, slotting between rounds in Baku and Singapore to create a triple-header of back-to-back races.
The change to the calendar still needs to be approved by the World Motor Sport Council, but that step is considered a formality.
Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali said: "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."
Adding Malaysia increases the current schedule to 23 races, but the inability of Bahrain to host a race in October creates major doubt over whether the final two rounds of the season - in Qatar (Nov 27-29) and Abu Dhabi (Dec 4-6) - will be able to go ahead.
As Formula 1 confirmed the addition of Malaysia ahead of Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix - the last race before a month-long summer break, the sport's bosses said that the schedule for the rest of the season currently remains unchanged.
The speed with which Formula 1 has pivoted to add the race in Malaysia reflects an adaptability that suggests they will be ready to make further alterations to the schedule should they be required to.
It remains to be seen whether Formula 1 would seek to replace just one or both of the final two rounds in the event they are unable to be held at their planned venues.
Sepang International Circuit organisers were understood to have been one of a number of venues to express interest in stepping in to host a Grand Prix this year.
Italy's Imola circuit is understood to be in the frame should another host be required, while Portugal and Turkey, both of which return to the sport's calendar in 2027, are other possible alternatives.
'Brotherly relations' between Bahrain and Malaysia aid F1
As Formula 1 sought a solution to avoid the commercial complications that could come with too many races falling off the 2026 calendar, the strong relationship between Bahrain and Malaysia has come in handy.
Bahrain Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said the staging of the event would build 'on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries."
He added: "This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain's enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport.
"Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for Formula 1, and we will
continue to do everything in our power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved."
Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim added: "Malaysia stands ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world back to Sepang.
"We look forward to showcasing our world-class infrastructure, operational excellence and warm hospitality, while further strengthening the bonds between our two nations through this special occasion."
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said that the sport's governing body had "worked tirelessly" in its attempts to reschedule the event in Bahrain.
Ben Sulayem said: "Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans remaining our highest priority."
The Formula 1 season resumes after the summer break with the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21-23, with every session live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW - no contract, cancel anytime
