Malaysia Set to Return to the Formula 1 Calendar, With a Twist

Formula 1 is set to return to Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit for the first time since 2017, with the track confirmed to host the Bahrain Grand Prix after Bahrain was unable to hold its race in 2026 due to ongoing regional conflict. The race, originally scheduled for April 12 as round four of the 2026 World Championship, will take place on October 4 but will be officially designated as the Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia rather than a standalone Malaysian GP. Multiple sources including ESPN, Motorsport.com, and BBC Sport have reported the addition, which is expected to be formally announced as early as next Sunday.