Sepang in Malaysia will host a Formula 1 race in October 2026, plans were formally announced on Tuesday.

The fixture replaces the cancelled Bahrain Grand Prix from earlier this year after political tension in the Gulf state forced the cancellation.

Sepang has not staged an F1 race since 2017, and preparing the track again comes with its own set of challenges.

Organisers now face questions over whether the circuit can be brought up to standard after years of a lack of investment.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Sepang has been cautious about restarting major international events, which is why eyes are now on the next few months.

If deadlines are missed before race weekend, organisers can scrap the event altogether, and Imola in Italy is waiting in the wings if needed.

The October date signals a comeback for Southeast Asian motorsport, though getting to the chequered flag remains tight.

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

Fans in Southeast Asia will be hoping for the best as the countdown to race day unfolds.