Formula 1 return to Sepang circuit

The Formula 1 calendar for 2026 includes the return of the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, scheduled for October 2–4. This event, titled the Bahrain Grand Prix, marks the sport’s first appearance at the venue since 2017 and is positioned within a triple-header between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.

Pirelli has designated the C2 (Hard), C3 (Medium), and C4 (Soft) tyre compounds for the race. This selection aims to minimize the lap time gap between different pit strategies despite the circuit’s abrasive asphalt, which has not been resurfaced since 2017. Pirelli opted against using its hardest compounds to encourage more tactical variety during the race.

To support the event, RM17.5 million has been allocated for road infrastructure upgrades in the Sepang district, with the majority directed toward routes FT26, FT27, and FT29, and RM1.5 million for route B48. Local authorities aim to complete these improvements by mid-September.

In Malaysia, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah emphasized that the race serves as a platform to showcase the nation’s stability and hosting capabilities to the international community. He encouraged the government to leverage the event to promote tourism in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.