Archive · 26 Jul 2026
Bahrain GP Moved to Malaysia
Formula One is moving the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia because of the war in the Middle East.
The race will be held at the Sepang circuit on October 4, 2026, and will still be called the Bahrain Grand Prix.
This is not the first time a race has been named after one country but held in another.
The Sepang circuit is known for being a great place for racing and will give fans a fantastic experience.
There are still questions about whether the last two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will happen, but if they don't, Italy's Imola circuit might take their place.
Malaysia's Sepang circuit will host the rescheduled Bahrain Grand Prix on October 4, 2026.
The race will officially be named the 'Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia'.
The original Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix were canceled due to the Iran war.
The Sepang circuit last hosted Formula One in 2017 but is a regular venue for MotoGP.
There is speculation about the final two races of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
- Who
- Formula One, Malaysia, Bahrain, FIA
- What
- Rescheduling of the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia
- When
- October 4, 2026
- Where
- Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
- Why
- Due to the Iran war and Middle East tensions
Pro-Middle East Racing
Anti-Middle East Racing
Safety Concerns
Pro-Middle East Racing
The Middle East races should proceed as planned, with adequate security measures in place.
Anti-Middle East Racing
The Middle East races should be canceled due to ongoing safety concerns and the escalating conflict.
- Race Date
- October 4, 2026
- Circuit
- Sepang International Circuit
- Official Name
- Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
- Last F1 Race in Malaysia
- 2017
- Reason for Rescheduling
- Iran war and Middle East tensions
- Potential Replacement for Qatar and Abu Dhabi
- Imola, Italy
- F1 Calendar Total Races
- 23
Sources
F1's surprise move! Bahrain GP heads to Malaysia
Malaysia set for Formula 1 comeback in October to host rescheduled Bahrain GP
Formula 1 Calendar Undergoes Massive Change, Bahrain Grand Prix Rescheduled To Take Place In Malaysia In October
Formula 1 Makes Major Calendar U-Turn: Bahrain GP Shifted To Malaysia
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix To Return At Malaysia's Sepang Circuit In 2026
