F1 considering Malaysian GP return as 2026 replacement race
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- Formula 1 is negotiating with Sepang organisers to slot the Malaysian Grand Prix onto the 2026 calendar on October 4, between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix (September 26) and Singapore Grand Prix (October 11).
- Bahrain had been the near-certain replacement for the early-October slot before escalating Middle East conflict in recent weeks forced F1 to look elsewhere.
- Saudi Arabia and Bahrain rounds were cancelled earlier in 2026, and Qatar (November 29) and Abu Dhabi (December 6) could also drop off if the Middle East situation does not stabilise.
- Portimao and Istanbul Park are cited as European contingencies if further Middle East races fall through, though cold-weather European options at season's end would be limited.
- George Russell said he wants a 24-race season and would "be happy to go racing every weekend if I could" to make up for the cancelled Bahrain and Saudi rounds.
- The Malaysian Grand Prix last ran in 2017 and was renowned as one of the toughest races on the calendar due to extreme heat and humidity.
Why it matters: F1 risks losing up to four paid Middle East rounds in a single season, forcing a calendar reshuffle that could slot Malaysia, Portimao, or Istanbul into commercially valuable slots. George Russell's public backing of a 24-race season shows drivers want the lost dates replaced rather than absorbed.
