KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) from Oct 2 to 4, marking the first time in Formula One history that a race has been relocated to another country after being cancelled.
Formula One (F1) said in a statement today that the event, subject to final agreements and official sign-off, including approval by the World Motor Sport Council, will be held under its original title, the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, in Malaysia.
F1 said the agreement between Formula One, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain would allow the race to proceed after it was cancelled earlier this season because of geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
"Information regarding ticket sales for the event will be announced soon," the statement said.
F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said the move demonstrated the sport's ability to adapt and find solutions while ensuring fans continued to enjoy a full championship calendar.
“Most importantly, this is fantastic news for our fans. They will continue to enjoy a full and exciting Formula 1 calendar, while also seeing the sport return to a great venue," he said.
Domenicali described Sepang as a special venue in Formula One history that would provide a spectacular setting for racing and an unforgettable experience for spectators at the circuit and viewers around the world.
He also thanked His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Majesty King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, together with their respective governments, for making the extraordinary arrangement possible.
Meanwhile, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the FIA, Formula One Management and their partners in Bahrain had explored every possible option, with the safety and wellbeing of teams, volunteers, officials and fans remaining the highest priority.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of F1 and the return of the championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport," he said.
The Bahrain Grand Prix was originally scheduled to be held at the Bahrain International Circuit on the same dates but was cancelled due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Malaysia and Türkiye subsequently emerged as the leading contenders to host the race after Bahrain's cancellation.
Sepang International Circuit hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017 before the race was dropped from the F1 calendar due to rising hosting costs and sanctioning fees.
-- BERNAMA