BUDAPEST: The Malaysian Grand Prix could return to the Formula One calendar as a stand-in this season as hopes of racing in Bahrain recede due to conflict in the region, informed sources said on Thursday (Jul 23).
The races at Sakhir and Saudi Arabia (Jeddah) in April were both called off due to the Iran war but attempts to reschedule a round in Bahrain had looked promising until the situation flared up again.
Multiple sources at the Hungarian Grand Prix told Reuters there were a number of replacement options being looked at, with nothing decided, but Malaysia’s Sepang circuit was one of those on the list.
A likely slot would be between Baku on Sep 26 and Singapore on Oct 11.
MALAYSIA OFF THE CALENDAR SINCE 2017
Malaysia last hosted a Formula One Grand Prix in 2017 but has remained on the MotoGP calendar and is of the grade required by governing body, the FIA. State oil company Petronas is also a partner of current Formula One leaders Mercedes.
Another alternative in the Asia region was Japan’s Suzuka circuit but one source said there was less appetite from teams to return there for a second time this season.
The Middle East is due to host the year’s last two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi in late November and early December, and while they remain scheduled at present, there is lingering uncertainty.
For logistical reasons, any decision on a replacement for Bahrain would need to be taken before the August break, which follows Sunday’s race at the Hungaroring.
The FIA’s World Motor Sport Council is due to vote this weekend on postponed World Endurance Championship (WEC) rounds scheduled for Bahrain and Qatar in October and November, with the expectation that they will be moved to European circuits.
Formula One is understood to be awaiting the outcome of that vote.
Portugal’s Portimao circuit, due to return next season as part of a two-year deal, has also been touted as a likely host to increase the number of races should Qatar and Abu Dhabi be forced to drop out while Barcelona may also be an option.
Given the warmer climate in Portugal’s Algarve region, the circuit near Faro is seen as one of few in Europe able to host Formula One in the winter months.
Formula One’s 2026 season was originally scheduled as a 24-race championship and the addition of replacement races would satisfy broadcast deals and could bring the number back to 22 or 23.
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