# Malaysia to Host Rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix

> Canonical: https://dubaipress.ae/sports/bahrain-grand-prix-2026-rescheduled/
> Source: https://dubaipress.ae/sports/bahrain-grand-prix-2026-rescheduled/
> Category: Sports
> Author: Danial
> Published: 2026-07-28
> Updated: 2026-07-28

## Summary

Formula One has confirmed that Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit will host the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix in October, bringing a major change to the 2026 F1 calendar after the original race was postponed due to regional security concerns in the Middle East.

## Article

Formula One has confirmed that Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit will host the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix in October, bringing a major change to the 2026 F1 calendar after the original race was postponed due to regional security concerns in the Middle East.


The race will take place on **October 4** and will officially be named the **“Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia”**, according to Formula One. The announcement was made by F1 Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali during the Hungarian Grand Prix, following an agreement between the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and Formula One.


“This is fantastic news for our fans,” Domenicali said, adding that the decision would allow supporters to continue enjoying a complete and competitive Formula One season while bringing the sport back to one of its historic venues.


Sepang holds a special place in Formula One history, having hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 until 2017. The circuit near Kuala Lumpur International Airport became known for its challenging layout, tropical weather conditions and demanding corners that tested both drivers and teams.


The rescheduled event comes after the cancellation of the original Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sakhir circuit, along with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. The postponements were linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East following the United States and Israel’s military conflict with Iran and the wider regional consequences.


By adding the Sepang race, the 2026 Formula One calendar returns to **23 scheduled rounds**. However, uncertainty remains over the final two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, with officials continuing to monitor the regional situation.


According to reports from sources close to the championship, Italy’s Imola circuit is being considered as a possible replacement for the season finale if the Middle Eastern races cannot proceed. The historic Ferrari-linked venue has previously hosted Formula One events and remains a popular option among fans.


The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia will create a busy Asian stretch of the calendar. The race will be held between the **Azerbaijan Grand Prix on September 26** and the **Singapore Grand Prix on October 11**, providing teams with another important challenge during the final stages of the championship.


Although Sepang has not hosted Formula One since 2017 and is now mainly associated with MotoGP events, the return of F1 is expected to attract significant global attention. For fans, teams and drivers, the Malaysian circuit represents both a nostalgic return and an important addition to a season affected by unprecedented scheduling changes.


The decision highlights Formula One’s continued effort to maintain a complete championship calendar while adapting to international events that can affect global sporting competitions.