Sepang Circuit Poised for Formula 1 Return as Middle East Conflict Reshapes 2026 Calendar
Malaysia is set to make a surprise return to the Formula 1 calendar after being selected to host the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix in October following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The race is expected to take place at the Sepang International Circuit near Kuala Lumpur from October 2 to 4, one week before the Singapore Grand Prix. Rather than being listed as the Malaysian Grand Prix, the event will officially be presented as the Bahrain Grand Prix, temporarily relocated to Malaysia.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days, although the race still requires final approval from Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA.
War Forces Major Changes to F1 Schedule
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, originally scheduled for April, were postponed in March following the outbreak of conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Formula 1 had hoped Bahrain could still host its race later in the season. However, with the logistical deadline approaching and no indication that the security situation would improve, organizers opted to move the event to Malaysia.
The decision will bring Formula 1 back to Sepang for the first time since 2017, reviving a circuit that was once a fan favorite for its challenging layout and unpredictable weather.
Three Consecutive Asian Races Planned
If confirmed, the revised calendar will feature three consecutive race weekends across Asia.
Drivers and teams will first compete in Azerbaijan, before heading to Malaysia, and then traveling to neighboring Singapore the following weekend.
The packed schedule is expected to create a demanding stretch for teams as they manage travel, logistics and car preparation across three countries in as many weeks.
Season Finale Still Uncertain
The ongoing conflict has also raised concerns over the final two races of the 2026 Formula 1 season, scheduled to be held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Those events remain on the calendar for late November and early December, but Formula 1 officials are closely monitoring the security situation.
A final decision is not expected until September, giving organizers more time to assess whether the races can safely go ahead.
Alternative Venues Being Considered
Should Qatar and Abu Dhabi be unable to host, Formula 1 is reportedly considering several replacement venues.
Italy’s Imola circuit is viewed as the leading alternative after successfully hosting the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix between 2020 and 2025.
Portugal’s Portimão circuit and Istanbul Park in Turkey are also being evaluated, although both face challenges due to ongoing construction work ahead of their planned return to the Formula 1 calendar next year.
Commercial Impact a Key Consideration
The cancellation of all four Middle Eastern races would reduce the original 24-race Formula 1 calendar to just 20 events.
Formula 1 is aiming to stage at least 21 races, as dropping below that number could trigger contractual obligations requiring refunds to broadcasters and potentially affect sponsorship agreements with teams.
Relocating the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia would help maintain the number of races while ensuring the championship continues with minimal disruption despite the ongoing geopolitical challenges.
