Formula 1 returns to Malaysia's Sepang Circuit after a 9-year hiatus
Executive summary: Formula 1 is bringing the Grand Prix back to the Sepang circuit in Malaysia after a nine-year absence, hosting the Bahrain GP from October 2 to 4. The return restores a key racing venue in Southeast Asia, expanding the sport's geographic footprint and broadcasting reach in the region.
Who is involved: Formula 1, Sepang International Circuit, Sky Sport, and NOW streaming service.
Likely next: Broadcasting of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia starting October 2, 2026.
The return of the Formula 1 World Championship to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit ends a nine‑year hiatus and places the race back on the calendar for early October. The event will be televised live by Sky and its streaming platform NOW, utilizing the existing broadcast arrangements that have previously served Malaysian motorsport fans. By situating the Grand Prix alongside the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is also slated to be held in Malaysia from October 2‑4, the organizers aim to create a double‑header that can draw both local spectators and international viewers tuning in from the region. From a business perspective, the race offers a chance to re‑activate sponsorship channels that were dormant during the absence, potentially attracting brands seeking exposure in Southeast Asia’s growing middle‑class market. The Sepang facility, which has undergone periodic upgrades, can showcase its capability to host a premier international event, which may strengthen its case for future F1 rounds or other major series. The immediate impact will be measured through ticket sales, television ratings and ancillary spending; those metrics will likely shape discussions about whether Malaysia can secure a more permanent slot on the Formula 1 calendar.
What's next — scenarios
Base Case: Successful seasonal reintegration (70%)
Stable broadcasting revenue and localized fan engagement for the 2026 season.
- High viewership figures on Sky/NOW during the October event
Upside: Expansion of Southeast Asian tour (20%)
Increased demand for other regional races (e.g., Singapore) following Sepang's success.
- Positive economic impact reports from Malaysian organizers
Downside: Low regional engagement (10%)
Difficulty in justifying the return of the race for future calendar slots.
- Disappointing attendance or viewership numbers
What to watch
- October 2-4: Bahrain Grand Prix live coverage in Malaysia
Timeline
- — Il GP della Malesia torna dopo 9 anni: dove erano i piloti di oggi nel 2017 (Sky Sport)
- — La F1 subito in Malesia: domenica GP alle 9 su Sky (Sky Sport)
Analysis — what this means
Likely next events
- Bahrain GP in Malaysia (October 2-4, 2026)
Sectors affected
- Sports broadcasting
- Motorsports
- Tourism in Malaysia
Historical parallels
- Last Malaysian GP held in 2017