Bahrain F1 Grand Prix Canceled Due to Iran War, to Be Held in Malaysia

Formula 1 has announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was canceled in April due to the escalating conflict between Iran and the United States, will be held on October 4. The race will take place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking the circuit's return to the Formula 1 World Championship calendar for the first time since 2017.

The decision to move the race to Malaysia was confirmed by Formula 1 and the International Automobile Federation (FIA) during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend. The event will retain its original name, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Sepang, a circuit known for its challenging layout, last hosted a Formula 1 race nine years ago.

This arrangement, facilitated by agreements between the involved sporting bodies and the governments of Bahrain and Malaysia, ensures the preservation of the Grand Prix. The cancellation of the Bahrain race was initially announced on March 14. Concurrently, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, scheduled for Jeddah on April 19, was also suspended, with no alternative venue announced for that race yet.

Despite this change, the remainder of the Formula 1 season's calendar remains unaffected. The season is still set to conclude with two races in the Persian Gulf region: Qatar from November 27-29 and Abu Dhabi from December 4-6. Officials stated that the solution involving Malaysia demonstrates the sport's adaptability and commitment to providing a full and exciting season for fans, partners, and the entire ecosystem.