FIA and Formula One Management confirm Malaysia will host 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix

DUBAI: The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile and Formula One Management have confirmed that Malaysia will host the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from Oct. 2-4, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.

The weekend, which is subject to final agreements and official sign-off, including the approval of the World Motor Sport Council, will become the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, said: “I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang International Circuit later this year.

“Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and well-being 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.”

The FIA says the solution was reached for the benefit of the 2026 schedule, as well as in recognition of Bahrain’s place on the calendar and the generosity of Malaysia in making the replacement possible.

This agreement, reached between the FIA, FOM, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, the king of Malaysia, and their respective governments, allows F1 to preserve a Grand Prix that would otherwise not have happened. The rest of the schedule for 2026 remains unchanged.

“My sincere thanks to His