F1 Returns to Sepang for Relocated Bahrain Grand Prix After Nine Years

Formula 1 is returning to Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit this weekend to host the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking the track's first appearance on the calendar since 2017. The race was originally scheduled for Bahrain in March but was relocated following Iran's military strikes on Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in response to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. The decision to move the event while retaining the Bahrain GP name followed extensive discussions between the governments of both countries, with Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa describing the relocation as a sign of his country's "commitment to, and passion for" Formula 1.

The Sepang circuit is known for its flowing layout, challenging weather conditions, and demanding heat and humidity. Rain is forecast for the weekend, potentially delivering the first fully wet race of the 2026 season. Ten drivers on the current grid have prior experience at Sepang, including three past winners at the venue: Fernando Alonso (victories in 2005, 2007, and 2012), Lewis Hamilton (2014 winner), and Max Verstappen (2017 winner). The remaining 12 drivers have prepared using factory simulators. Air pollution haze from Indonesian forest and peat fires may also affect visibility, though Formula 1 stated on Wednesday it poses no risk to the event.

The race represents a return to an established F1 tradition. Bahrain joins Switzerland, San Marino, and Luxembourg as countries that have hosted Grand Prix races in different nations to work around historical regulations and security considerations. The event slots between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and next week's Singapore race. Bahrain is sending 561 marshals and race officials to Malaysia, and the podium celebration will feature traditional rosewater instead of Champagne. The relocation offset financial losses from the cancellation of both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races earlier in the season.