League: F1 Sport: Motorsports Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Malaysia could return to Formula 1 calendar amid ongoing conflicts

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 23, 2026, 2:33 PM

Last updated Jul 23, 2026

Malaysia could return to Formula 1 calendar amid ongoing conflicts

Summary

Malaysia may rejoin the Formula 1 calendar this year as a contingency amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Following the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in April, F1 is reviewing options for the second half of the 2026 season. Discussions are centered around including the Sepang International Circuit for a race scheduled for October 4. Historically, Malaysia hosted F1 events from 1999 until 2017, when it discontinued due to financial issues. A decision on the potential rescheduling must occur quickly, as the racing season's logistics will require timely planning and preparations.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Malaysia withdrew from F1 in 2017 due to hosting fees.
•Ongoing discussions aim for a race on October 4 at Sepang.
•Istanbul Park could also return to the calendar in 2027.
•F1 season is affected by conflicts in the Middle East.

Latest Updates

2:33 PMYahoo Sports — Malaysia could return to F1 calendar for first time in nine years amid schedule shake-up
2:33 PMYahoo Sports — Report: Malaysia could join F1 calendar this year if conflict goes on

What they're saying

"
Malaysia could return to the Formula One calendar at short notice this year if the Iran conflict causes more problems, specialist website the-race. com reported on Thursday.
— Yahoo Sports