Yes, you read that headline correctly just now. After hosting its final Formula 1 (F1) race at Sepang International Circuit in 2017, the FIA has officially confirmed that Malaysia will host this year's Bahrain Grand Prix, which is scheduled for October 2026.

It will be called the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia and was agreed upon by Formula 1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain, and the Government of Malaysia. According to Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, this demonstrates the sport's ability to adapt amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

“We are delighted to confirm 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. 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,” said Domenicali.

Meanwhile, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented that he is incredibly proud of this collaboration between Malaysia and Bahrain.

“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang circuit later this year. Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans remaining our highest priority. Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of Formula 1, and the return of the Championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport,” shared Sulayem.

This is not the first time that another country has hosted a race under a different country name. Back in 1982, France held the Swiss Grand Prix at the Dijon-Prenois circuit after Switzerland banned motorsport racing in 1955 following the 1955 Le Mans disaster.

Meanwhile, Italy held the San Marino Grand Prix from 1981 until 2006 at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. Last but not least was Germany, which hosted the Luxembourg Grand Prix in 1997 and 1998 at the Nurburgring since Luxembourg did not have a suitable F1-grade circuit.

The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will take place from October 2 to 4, 2026, at the Sepang International Circuit. Ticket pricing will be revealed soon.