Formula 1 and the Federation Internationale de l’Autombile (FiA) confirmed that the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia will host the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from October 2-4, 2026.
The race will happen in the two-week gap between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, making it a triple-header.
After numerous agreements, an official sign-off with the additional approval of the World Motor Sport Council, the race was concluded to be named the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
Formula 1, the FiA, the Government of Bahrain and the Government of Malaysia came together to plan and create an agreement that allows the sport to preserve a Grand Prix that was likely not going to happen.
The Sepang track near Kuala Lumpur is one of F1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather.
The circuit previously hosted a race in 2017 and made its debut on the F1 calendar in 1999.
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.”
F1 is keen to host at least 21 races, to meet the demands that a business sport like this requires. Much of the arrangement between Bahrain and Malaysia was heavily influenced by Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
“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,” Domenicali said.
“It will provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans at the circuit and watching around the world.”