After a nine-year absence, Formula 1 is officially returning to Sepang International Circuit.

Formula 1 and the FIA have confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from 2–4 October 2026, filling the slot left vacant after Bahrain's race was postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The event, still subject to final administrative approval, will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.

Sepang returns as F1's solution

Rather than removing Bahrain from the calendar, Formula 1, the FIA, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia reached an agreement to stage the race at Sepang.

The arrangement preserves the Bahrain Grand Prix while keeping the 2026 calendar intact.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described it as more than a sporting event, saying it reflects the close relationship between Malaysia and Bahrain while reaffirming Malaysia's ability to host world-class international events.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added that the agreement demonstrates the sport's ability to "adapt, find solutions, and deliver", while FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem called Sepang's return a testament to Malaysia's long-standing place in Formula 1 history.

A circuit that never lost its reputation

Sepang hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before rising hosting costs and declining attendance ended its run.

Despite leaving the calendar, the circuit remained one of Formula 1's most respected venues. Its fast layout, wide track and unpredictable tropical weather regularly produced memorable races.

The inaugural Malaysian Grand Prix in 1999 immediately entered F1 folklore. Returning from injury, Michael Schumacher sacrificed his own race to help Ferrari teammate Eddie Irvine's championship challenge. Ferrari's celebrations were briefly halted after both cars were disqualified over an aerodynamic infringement, only for the decision to be overturned on appeal.

Sepang also witnessed dramatic wet-weather races, including the rain-shortened 2009 Malaysian GP that awarded half championship points, while Max Verstappen remains the last F1 winner at the circuit after his victory in 2017.

More than a one-off return

For now, Sepang's return is intended as a replacement venue rather than a permanent revival of the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Still, the comeback is rich in irony. Malaysia stepped away from Formula 1 because hosting the championship had become too expensive. Nine years later, Formula 1 has turned back to the very circuit it once left behind.

Whether this proves to be a one-off appearance or the beginning of a longer relationship, one thing is certain: one of Formula 1's most iconic circuits is back where many fans believe it belongs.

Driving to the Bahrain Grand Prix? Bateriku KLIA Avenue Is Nearby

Travelling to Sepang for the Bahrain Grand Prix? With thousands of fans expected to drive to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur, Johor, or other part of Malaysia, reliable roadside assistance can provide extra peace of mind throughout the race weekend.

If you encounter a flat battery or require emergency vehicle assistance near Sepang International Circuit, Bateriku KLIA Avenue is the nearest Bateriku outlet, offering fast on-demand roadside assistance 24 hours a day.

Source: F1