Malaysia is expected to host a Formula 1 race at Sepang on 2-4 October, replacing the Bahrain Grand Prix postponed because of the war in the Middle East. The event would be branded as the Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia, marking F1’s return to Sepang for the first time since 2017 and helping preserve the season’s race total.

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia’s April races were postponed in March, and F1 has decided it cannot wait longer for Bahrain to become viable again. Confirmation is expected within days, subject to formal approval, and would create three consecutive race weekends in Azerbaijan, Malaysia and Singapore. Qatar and Abu Dhabi, due to conclude the season, also remain uncertain; Imola is the leading alternative if they cannot proceed, while F1 wants at least 21 races to avoid potential contractual repayments to broadcasters and sponsors.