The race will be held from October 2-4 and retain its official identity as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
Sepang takes the vacant position between the Azerbaijan and Singapore grands prix, creating a three-race run across consecutive weekends.
Formal approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council and the completion of the remaining agreements are still required before the event is officially added to the calendar.
The deal was negotiated by Formula 1, the FIA and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia after the championship abandoned plans to hold the race at the Bahrain International Circuit.
Safety concerns arising from the continuing instability in the Middle East had already prevented Bahrain and Saudi Arabia from hosting their scheduled rounds earlier in the season.
Rather than remove another event from the championship, Bahrain backed an arrangement that will allow its grand prix to be transferred to Sepang for one year.
Click here to find out how.
The Malaysian circuit previously appeared on the Formula 1 calendar for 19 consecutive seasons between 1999 and 2017.
Its combination of long straights, fast corners, intense heat and sudden rain made Sepang one of the championship’s most distinctive venues before financial concerns brought its original deal to an end.
Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said the agreement had protected the race while delivering an unexpected return to Malaysia.
“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,” Domenicali said.
“Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue.
“Malaysia is an incredible country, and Sepang holds a special place in Formula 1 history. It will provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans at the circuit and watching around the world.”
The event will remain associated with Bahrain through its name and Gulf Air title sponsorship despite taking place at Sepang, near Kuala Lumpur.
Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said the unusual arrangement demonstrated the country’s continued support for Formula 1.
“This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport,” he said.
“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 Anwar Ibrahim said the country was prepared to bring Formula 1 back to Sepang at short notice.
“We are honoured to support the Kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit this year,” he said.
“This collaboration is more than the staging of a world-class sporting event. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, while reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness and capability to host major international events.”
View this post on Instagram
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said those involved had considered a range of alternatives before settling on the Malaysian solution.
“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang circuit later this year,” 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.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of Formula One and the return of the Championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport.”
No further changes have been made to the current F1 schedule, which currently remains at 23 rounds.
Uncertainty nevertheless continues to surround the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grands prix at the end of the season, with their staging dependent on security conditions in the region.
Discussion about this post