The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran disrupted the Formula 1 calendar in April. Now, one of those canceled events will return, albeit at a new destination.
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According to series organizers, the Bahrain Grand Prix will actually take place this season. It will just move to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.
The rescheduled and moved event will take place on Oct. 2-4 while forming a tripleheader with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix (Sept. 24-26) and the Singapore Grand Prix (Oct. 9-11.
This will mark the first time since the 2017 season that the Sepang International Circuit will host an F1 event. The track was a mainstay on the schedule between 1999-2017 with such drivers as Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Kimi Raikkonen, and Max Verstappen winning.
Moving the Bahrain Grand Prix to a once-dormant track on very short notice is by no means a small feat. Yet, it will happen after an agreement between Formula 1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain, and the Government of Malaysia.
"We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026," said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1. "Once again, the sport has demonstrated its ability to adapt, find solutions, and deliver, creating an exciting moment for everyone who follows Formula 1.
"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 season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains scheduled for Dec. 4-6. Yet, it also remains a question mark based on the conflict in the Middle East. This is also true for the penultimate event of the season, the Qatar Grand Prix on Nov. 27-29.
