Malaysian Grand Prix could make a sensational return to the Formula 1 World Championship later this season, with Sepang International Circuit emerging as one of the leading candidates to replace the cancelled Bahrain Grand Prix if the ongoing conflict in the Middle East forces further changes to the calendar.
According to The Race, Formula 1 management is currently evaluating contingency plans after renewed military tensions involving the United States and Iran cast serious doubt over the staging of several races in the region.
Earlier this year, Bahrain’s postponed Grand Prix had appeared on course to be rescheduled for 4 October, fitting into the calendar between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku and the Singapore Grand Prix.
However, the worsening geopolitical situation has dramatically reduced the likelihood of the race going ahead.
With missile attacks continuing in the region and security concerns escalating, Formula 1 is reportedly reluctant to commit to hosting an event in Bahrain.
A final decision on Bahrain is expected before Formula 1’s summer shutdown.
The situation is also expected to be influenced by a decision from the FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) regarding the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) calendar.
Following the outbreak of conflict earlier this year, the WEC postponed its Qatar round until 24 October, while the Bahrain finale remains scheduled for 7 November.
Any ruling on those events could provide a clear indication of whether Formula 1 will proceed with its own Middle Eastern races.
While Formula 1 is expected to delay final decisions on the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix for as long as possible, organisers are keen to resolve Bahrain’s position much sooner.
Should Bahrain be officially cancelled, Formula 1 is eager to maintain the race weekend rather than reduce the calendar.
That has brought Sepang International Circuit firmly into consideration.
According to sources, the Malaysian venue is viewed as one of the strongest candidates because of several logistical advantages:
- Located geographically close to Singapore, minimising freight transportation challenges.
- Situated adjacent to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, allowing rapid turnaround for teams and equipment.
- Proven infrastructure with extensive Formula 1 experience.
Malaysia hosted Formula 1 continuously from 1999 until 2017 before leaving the calendar due to rising race hosting fees, despite Sepang remaining one of the drivers’ favourite circuits.
The venue continues to host major international events, including MotoGP, and remains fully operational.
If Formula 1 ultimately loses additional races later in the season—including Qatar or Abu Dhabi—the championship is also exploring replacement options for the final rounds.
Portugal’s Portimão Circuit is understood to be the leading candidate to host a replacement race, potentially becoming the 2026 season finale on 6 December, two weeks after the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Credit Photo : Reuters
