Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026, marking the return of F1 racing to the country after a nine-year absence [1, 2, 3, 4]. The 2026 race will officially be called the "Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia" [3, 5].

The event is being staged in Malaysia on behalf of Bahrain, whose original race calendar was disrupted by the armed conflict in West Asia [1, 3, 4, 5]. The decision followed close diplomatic ties and royal diplomacy between the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim and King Hamad of Bahrain [4].

Bahrain is paying the hosting rights fee for the race, estimated between US$70 million and US$80 million, while Malaysia will share roughly RM40 million (about S$12.7 million) in operational costs for track preparation and event staging [3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]. Overall costs for hosting could exceed RM300 million [7, 8, 9, 10]. Sepang International Circuit requires upgrades such as run-off area improvements and other infrastructure work but does not need resurfacing [7, 9, 10].

Ticket sales and pricing decisions rest with Bahrain since it is footing the rights fee [6, 7, 9, 10]. Sepang CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif said he is negotiating to offer discounted or special pricing for Malaysians, potentially via MyKad discounts, but the final decision lies with Bahrain [6, 7, 9, 10]. Tickets are expected to go on sale in early August 2026 or sooner [6].

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi noted the economic benefits beyond tourist arrivals, citing extensive global media coverage reaching billions worldwide [3]. Sepang’s CEO highlighted that F1 hosts typically generate over three times the value in spillover effects, estimating Malaysia’s economic impact could exceed RM1 billion [7]. The country’s peaceful status, stable economy, and strong diplomatic relations were key factors in its selection [11].

Preparations are ongoing, with work around the clock to meet Formula 1 requirements as the race date approaches in less than two months [7, 9, 10]. Sepang CEO also estimated Malaysia would need to spend at least RM300 million annually to secure a permanent F1 calendar slot in the future [8].

The race is set to officially take place from October 2 to 4, 2026, with ticket sales anticipated soon.