Sepang in Malaysia will host a Formula 1 race in October 2026, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

The event replaces the cancelled Bahrain Grand Prix from earlier this year after protests and disruption in the Gulf state forced the cancellation.

Sepang has not staged an F1 race since 2017, and bringing it back comes with a long task list.

Organisers now face questions over whether the circuit can be prepared on schedule after years of a lack of investment.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Sepang has been hesitant to relaunch major international events, sparking concern from drivers and teams.

If issues arise before race weekend, organisers could still pull the plug, and Imola in Italy is sitting on standby if needed.

The October date signals a comeback for Southeast Asian motorsport, though the recovery period remains fragile.

Tickets and detailed schedules have not yet been released, and official information are expected in the lead-up to October.

Fans of Malaysian motorsport will be watching closely as the countdown to race day ticks down.