NEWS
Why the Formula 1 Race in Malaysia is Called "Bahrain GP"
Peculiar situation: The "premier class" returns to Sepang, but this does not constitute a comeback for the Malaysian Grand Prix. Why it happened:
Since 2017, Malaysia has had to do without a Formula 1 race. This coming weekend (October 2-4), the Sepang International Circuit celebrates a comeback on the calendar.
However, it is not the "Malaysian Grand Prix": The race weekend will operate under the designation "Bahrain Grand Prix".
Although there are around 6,000 kilometers as the crow flies between the two countries, pragmatism overrides this fact.
Close to the next track
The originally planned Bahrain GP on the home track of Sakhir fell victim to the war in the Middle East. However, the contracts can be honored by retaining the title "Bahrain Grand Prix" at the substitute track. This way, the original host country also finances the event.
Malaysia was chosen as the substitute venue for practical reasons as well: Located in the middle of a triple-header between Azerbaijan and Singapore, it is only 300 kilometers from Sepang to the next venue.
