Formula 1 and the FIA have confirmed that the Bahrain Grand Prix will be staged in Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2-4, 2026, effectively replacing the original Bahrain race on the calendar. The event, branded as the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, returns Sepang to the schedule for the first time since 2017 and slots between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix, with Bahrain willing to cover much of the rescheduling costs. The move preserves a 23-race season amid broader uncertainty over late-year rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, with options under discussion, including potential Las Vegas back-to-back races or one-off European finales. The agreement involves the FIA, Formula 1 Management, and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, and is framed as a collaborative solution to keep the calendar intact while honoring Bahrain’s place in the championship. Malaysia’s Prime Minister lauded the partnership, emphasizing the country’s readiness to host major international events and highlighting a long-standing cooperation with Bahrain. This development underscores Formula 1’s flexibility in adapting schedules to ensure a robust 2026 season and to celebrate Sepang’s iconic status among global fans.