Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix after the event was canceled due to the Middle East conflict, with Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali calling it a spectacular setting
for fans.
The Bahrain Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April 2026, was called off in March 2026 after the war between the US/Israel and Iran disrupted the region. Malaysia’s Sepang circuit will now host the race from October 2–4, 2026, replacing Bahrain’s slot on the F1 calendar. The decision was influenced by Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, whose sovereign investment fund owns the McLaren F1 team. The arrangement between Bahrain and Malaysia was heavily influenced by Prince Salman, who described the Bahrain race as his pet project
since its debut in 2004.
A Shift Driven by Geopolitical Tensions
The cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix in March 2026 stemmed from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. F1 faced pressure to maintain at least 21 races to avoid contractual penalties with broadcasters and teams. The sport’s president, Stefano Domenicali, emphasized the importance of the 21-race minimum, stating that any less would activate contractual clauses that could see the sport have to pay rights fees back to broadcasters
. Malaysia’s involvement was brokered by Prince Salman, who had championed the Bahrain race since its 2004 debut. The agreement also secured support from Malaysia’s Sultan Ibrahim and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026,
Domenicali said in a statement reported by the BBC. 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 also praised Malaysia’s incredible country
and special place in Formula 1 history
, citing Sepang’s spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans
.
Sepang’s Return and Calendar Adjustments
Malaysia last hosted an F1 race in 2017, with Max Verstappen securing victory. The 2026 event will mark Sepang’s return to the calendar. The race will take place a week before the Singapore Grand Prix, creating a three-week consecutive run of races in Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Singapore. The move to Malaysia ensures F1 meets its minimum race count, avoiding financial penalties. However, the Middle East conflict still threatens other races, including the season-closing events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
F1 is exploring alternatives for these races, with Imola in Italy, Portimao in Portugal, and Istanbul Park in Turkey as potential replacements. A decision on these races is expected by September 2026. Imola staged the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix from 2020 to 2025 after previously holding F1 races between 1980 and 2006. Portimao and Istanbul Park are set to return to the calendar next season but would require construction work before being given the green light. European tracks are considered too cold at that time of year, limiting options.
Implications for the 2026 Season
The relocation of the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia underscores F1’s adaptability amid global disruptions. The event’s return to Sepang offers a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans, with the track’s reputation as a spectacular setting
attracting both longtime followers and new audiences. The 2026 season will test F1’s flexibility as it navigates geopolitical challenges while maintaining its global appeal.
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