Sepang steps in for Bahrain

Formula 1 is returning to Malaysia for the first time since 2017, but in an unusual arrangement: the October 4 race will officially be the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

The race fills the gap between Azerbaijan and Singapore after the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East scuppered Formula 1’s hopes of restoring the Bahrain Grand Prix. Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were initially removed from the 2026 schedule after the outbreak of conflict in the region.

Sepang was selected because of its location, infrastructure and readiness. The circuit has retained its FIA Grade 1 certification, continued to host major events including MotoGP, and sits beside Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Its proximity to Singapore also limits the logistical burden of adding another race to an already demanding late-season schedule.

A financial and logistical compromise

The arrangement gives Bahrain a route to retain its name on a grand prix while Malaysia can reassess the demand for Formula 1 without taking on the full cost of a conventional hosting deal. For Formula 1, the event restores clarity to the calendar and preserves a valuable commercial round.

Malaysia’s original departure came after its promoter questioned whether Formula 1 justified reported hosting fees of more than $40 million a year. “It’s hard to sell this kind of event and to get bums on the seats,” former Sepang chief executive Razlan Razali said at the time. Formula 1’s subsequent growth, including rising attendance and viewership, has changed the economic backdrop considerably.

Uncertainty still surrounds the season finale

The return to Sepang does not resolve the bigger question over the final two races. Qatar is scheduled for November 29 and Abu Dhabi for December 6, but the conflict shows no clear sign of ending. Formula 1’s working intention remains to hold both events, although it is expected to have to make a firm decision by early October so teams know where to send freight.

If the Middle East finale becomes impossible, Imola is currently regarded as the most likely replacement. Portimão and Istanbul are less attractive emergency options because both are preparing for larger-scale Formula 1 returns in 2027. A European replacement would leave the season with 23 races if one alternative round is added, rather than the originally planned schedule.

The World Endurance Championship’s expected decision to replace its own planned Middle East races with events in Barcelona and Monza has added to the pressure on Formula 1 to prepare for multiple scenarios.

Plans are also being prepared for 2027

Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that contingency plans are already in place for next year if the regional conflict continues. The 2027 calendar will be announced later than usual, but Formula 1 says it still wants to maintain a 24-race target.

Beyond the immediate crisis, Formula 1 is discussing possible future races with Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, Argentina and Germany. Hockenheim has re-established contact with the championship, while talks are also continuing in Africa, South America and the Far East.