Formula One will return to Malaysia after nine years as the war in the Middle East continues to affect races in the region.

Formula One and the FIA announced on Sunday that Malaysia will host Bahrain’s postponed Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4. The race will take place between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.

The move keeps the Bahrain Grand Prix on the Formula One calendar despite the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran.

War Forces Changes to F1 Calendar

Organisers had planned to hold the Bahrain Grand Prix in April. However, the conflict in the Middle East forced Formula One to postpone the race.

Bahrain later explored a new date in early October. Those plans faced uncertainty after tensions in the region increased again this month.

“This agreement, reached between Formula 1, the FIA, the Government of Bahrain, and the Government of Malaysia, allows Formula 1 to preserve a Grand Prix that would otherwise not have happened,” according to the statement.

The agreement still requires final approvals, including approval from the World Motor Sport Council.

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah also suffered the same fate. Organisers postponed that race after the war broke out in late February.

Despite the disruption, Formula One still plans to race in Qatar in November and Abu Dhabi in December.

Sepang Welcomes Formula One Back

Malaysia last hosted a Formula One race in 2017. The country ended its involvement because of rising costs and falling ticket sales.

Sepang had hosted Formula One races since joining the calendar in 1999.

The return of the sport marks a major moment for Malaysian motorsport.

“Malaysia stands ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world back to Sepang,” Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said in the statement, adding the collaboration reflects the close relations between his country and Bahrain.