Anwar confirms talks over Sepang’s F1 future

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed that talks are under way with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali about Sepang’s future on the calendar, according to a post-race RacingNews365 report. Before the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, Anwar told Sky Sports F1 he was looking forward to discussing a possible return to the calendar.

Sepang hosted the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia after the round normally held at Bahrain International Circuit was relocated amid the regional conflict. The circuit was drafted in at roughly 10 weeks’ notice and the weekend drew a record 261,000 fans.

RacingNews365 cites an unnamed source saying Sepang hopes to step in again in 2027 if an opportunity arises—for example, by hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia again or replacing the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix if that race cannot go ahead. The outlet also says the circuit is expected to push harder for a place on the 2028 calendar.

That longer-term push faces logistical hurdles. RacingNews365 reported major traffic congestion, water leaks and track-surface problems at the 2026 event, alongside reports of fans spending hours trying to leave the circuit; it said a permanent return would require further logistical work.