An interesting decision. Bahrain Grand Prix to take place... not in Bahrain

Formula 1 is on the verge of making a sensational return to the legendary Sepang Circuit. According to BBC Sport, the Malaysian Grand Prix is set to join the 2026 World Championship calendar, taking the place of the canceled Bahrain round.

The race is expected to be held from October 2 to 4 at the circuit just outside Kuala Lumpur. Interestingly, the event will officially retain the title of Bahrain Grand Prix, even though it will be run in Malaysia. An official announcement could come within days, once all approval procedures with the FIA are finalized.

As a reminder, both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, originally scheduled for the spring, were canceled due to armed conflict in the Middle East. Championship organizers had hoped to reschedule the Bahrain race for October, but due to ongoing instability, they opted to seek an alternative venue.

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The Sepang Circuit last hosted a Formula 1 round in 2017, when Red Bull driver Max Verstappen clinched victory—marking the second win of his career.