Sepang Set for a Comeback? Malaysian PM to Announce F1 Return Decision Soon

The 2026 Formula 1 calendar has been in a state of flux since the Middle East conflict forced the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix earlier this year. Now, the scramble to fill the void is reaching a climax, and a fan-favorite circuit is on the verge of an unexpected return.

According to a recent update from F1 Speed Indonesia, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has officially addressed the rumors surrounding the Sepang International Circuit. Responding to press inquiries regarding F1’s request to have Malaysia replace the canceled Bahrain GP, Ibrahim confirmed that a definitive answer is imminent.

“Regarding F1, we will make an announcement on Sunday,” the Prime Minister stated, setting a July 26 deadline for the decision.

This aligns with recent confirmations from Malaysia’s Youth and Sports Ministry, which has been actively assessing the feasibility, costs, and logistics of hosting a Grand Prix at short notice.

F1’s Calendar Scramble

The aggressive push for Malaysia comes after F1’s initial contingency plans fell apart. Organizers had originally hoped to reschedule the Bahrain GP for early October—slotting it right between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races. However, with geopolitical tensions flaring up once again, the FIA and F1 management have been forced to abandon the Middle East makeup dates entirely.

According to a breaking report highlighted by @Nachez98, F1 is “VERY CLOSE” to giving Sepang the green light to take over that post-Baku slot on the calendar.

If the Malaysian government approves the bid on Sunday, it will mark Sepang’s first Formula 1 race since it was dropped due to rising hosting fees in 2017. However, if the financial logistics of the deal fall through, F1 still has European backup plans. The same report notes that Imola has joined Portimao and Turkey on the shortlist of candidate circuits ready to step in and help close out the highly disrupted 2026 season.