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F1 announce new Grand Prix for 2026 as fan favourite returns for first time since 2017

Formula One have announced a new race will be added to the F1 calendar this year as a Grand Prix is replaced by a fan favourite track

[Malaysia Grand Prix]

Malaysia is returning to the F1 calendar

Formula One have confirmed that a new race will be added to the F1 calendar this year.

Following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix earlier in the year due to the Middle East conflict, F1 have announced that the former will be replaced this year by a race in Malaysia.

The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will still be named as such but will be held at the popular Sepang International Circuit from October 2-4 2026, joining the calendar between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix.

[Bahrain Grand Prix]

The Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled

Sepang made it's debut on the calendar in 1999 but last held a Grand Prix in 2017, with Max Verstappen beating Lewis Hamilton and Daniel Ricciardo to top the podium.

The track disappeared from the sport due to mounting costs, but the agreement means it will return to replace the Bahrain weekend this year, ensuring a race weekend which was previously cancelled will be run.

Fans lapped up the news on social media, with one user saying: "Its a great track Ive missed it." A second echoed: "Malaysia shouldn't need help, it's one of the best circuits in the world and F1 should be going there every year!" While a third added: "Really looking forward to the (weather) unpredictability. Legendary track. Hope the current cars wont mess it up (they will)."

President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali, said: We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026. Once again, the sport has demonstrated its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1.

[Max Verstappen]

A teenage Max Verstappen was the last winner of an F1 race in Malaysia

I would like to express our sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as well as their respective governments for making this extraordinary outcome possible through their vision, commitment, and decisive action.

Of course, I would also like to thank FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration throughout the process.

Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue. Malaysia is an incredible country, and Sepang holds a special place in Formula 1 history.

It will provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for fans at the circuit and watching around the world.

The introduction of Malaysia back on the calendar means there will be 23 races this year; however, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East there remains concerns over whether the final two races in Qatar (November 27-29) and Abu Dhabi (December 4-6) will go ahead.

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