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Malaysia to Host 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, reviving Sepang

7/26/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, called the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, at Sepang on October 4 with Bahrain funding costs.
It replaces the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix cancelled after missile strikes and returns F1 to Sepang after a nine-year gap, circuit last hosted a race in 2017.
The agreement signed by F1, FIA, Bahrain and Malaysia awaits approval and restores the calendar to 23 races.

History

Historical Context

Opened in 2004, the Bahrain International Circuit hosted the Middle East’s first Formula 1 Grand Prix and, after a 2011 cancellation caused by civil unrest, returned in 2012. The 2008 race drew 78,000 fans and secured a $150 million Gulf Air deal, demonstrating commercial appeal. In 2026 the event will shift to Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit, extending the calendar to 23 races.

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Story summary

Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, called the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, at Sepang on October 4 with Bahrain funding costs.
It replaces the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix cancelled after missile strikes and returns F1 to Sepang after a nine-year gap, circuit last hosted a race in 2017.
The agreement signed by F1, FIA, Bahrain and Malaysia awaits approval and restores the calendar to 23 races.

1 / 2