Formulation 1 has added Malaysia to its 2026 schedule because the host of the Bahrain Grand Prix that was postponed earlier within the season.
The game’s bosses had hoped to reinstate the occasion to the calendar, however the continuation of battle within the Center East, which was the unique explanation for the cancellation of April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, has compelled a change of plan.
As a substitute, Malaysia’s Sepang Worldwide Circuit will host an occasion that can nonetheless be titled the ‘Bahrain Grand Prix’, with the Gulf state funding the race in a present of assist for the game.
The occasion, which can see Malaysia host a race for the primary time since 2017, is scheduled to happen from October 2-4, slotting between rounds in Baku and Singapore to create a triple-header of back-to-back races.
The change to the calendar nonetheless must be accredited by the World Motor Sport Council, however that step is taken into account a formality.
Formulation 1 president Stefano Domenicali stated: “We’re delighted to verify 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.”
Including Malaysia will increase the present schedule to 23 races, however the incapacity of Bahrain to host a race in October creates main doubt over whether or not the ultimate two rounds of the season – in Qatar (Nov 27-29) and Abu Dhabi (Dec 4-6) – will have the ability to go forward.
As Formulation 1 confirmed the addition of Malaysia forward of Sunday’s Hungarian Grand Prix – the final race earlier than a month-long summer season break, the game’s bosses stated that the schedule for the remainder of the season at the moment stays unchanged.
The pace with which Formulation 1 has pivoted so as to add the race in Malaysia displays an adaptability that means they are going to be able to make additional alterations to the schedule ought to they be required to.
It stays to be seen whether or not Formulation 1 would search to switch only one or each of the ultimate two rounds within the occasion they’re unable to be held at their deliberate venues.
The Sepang Worldwide Circuit has beforehand hosted 19 F1 races
Sepang Worldwide Circuit organisers have been understood to have been considered one of numerous venues to precise curiosity in stepping in to host a Grand Prix this 12 months.
Italy’s Imola circuit is known to be within the body ought to one other host be required, whereas Portugal and Turkey, each of which return to the game’s calendar in 2027, are different doable alternate options.
The Formulation 1 season resumes after the summer season break with the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21-23, with each session dwell on Sky Sports activities F1. Stream Sky Sports activities with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime
