Formula 1 and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) have confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from October 2–4, 2026, subject to final agreements and approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
The race will take place between the Azerbaijan and
Singapore Grands Prix as part of the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship
calendar.
The event, officially titled the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain
Grand Prix in Malaysia, follows an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, and
the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia.
The arrangement ensures the Bahrain Grand Prix remains on
the 2026 calendar despite circumstances that would have otherwise prevented the
race from taking place in Bahrain.
The remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 schedule remains
unchanged.
Formula 1 said the agreement reflects Bahrain's
long-standing commitment to the sport since hosting the Middle East's first
Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2004, while also recognising Malaysia's support in
staging the event.
Sepang International Circuit, which last hosted Formula 1 in
2017, is regarded as one of the championship's most iconic venues, renowned for
its demanding layout, passionate fan base and unpredictable weather, making it
a popular destination for drivers and spectators alike.
Ticket sales and further event details are expected to be
announced in the coming weeks.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, said: "With the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar, King of Malaysia, and building on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries, I am proud to join Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia in announcing that Bahrain will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, from 2 to 4 October 2026. 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. I offer my sincere appreciation to F1, the FIA, Bahrain International Circuit, Sepang International Circuit, and the teams for their support in helping us deliver an exciting weekend of racing."
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, said:
"I extend my deepest appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin
Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, as
well as the Government and people of Bahrain, for the trust and confidence they
have placed in Malaysia. 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. 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.”
He 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."
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 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
wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans
remaining our highest priority.”
Ben Sulayem added: "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. My sincere thanks to
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, His
Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince
Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, for their vision and support in making
this possible. We look forward to welcoming the global motorsport community
back to Sepang."
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, 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. I would like to express our sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as well as their respective governments for making this extraordinary outcome possible through their vision, commitment, and decisive action. Of course, I would also like to thank FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration throughout the process.”
Domenicali added: "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." -TradeArabia News Service
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