Malaysia is seen as a probable substitute for Bahrain.

      Malaysia has emerged as a potential frontrunner for a surprise return to the Formula 1 calendar, as escalating tensions involving Iran diminish Bahrain's prospects of hosting a replacement race. Several sources, including Reuters, The New York Times, Sky Sports, De Telegraaf, and Malaysia’s New Straits Times, indicate that Sepang is being considered for the open October 4 date, which falls between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races.

      Although no decision has been finalized, it is believed that Formula 1 seeks clarity before the summer break due to the significant logistical challenges involved. Sepang's proximity to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and its less than one-hour flight time from Singapore make it a highly feasible option.

      Malaysia hosted Formula 1 from 1999 until 2017, when Max Verstappen claimed victory in the last race before rising costs and decreasing attendance terminated the event. The renewed interest in Malaysia coincides with the apparent failure of efforts to reinstate Bahrain on the calendar.

      As reported by Japan’s as-web.jp, Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa made a discreet visit to Spa the previous weekend, meeting with Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali, prominent team figures, and representatives from manufacturers. The meeting was intended to persuade stakeholders that Bahrain could safely host a race in the first week of October.

      However, the situation quickly deteriorated once more, as Iran reportedly attacked a U.S. airbase in Sakhir, which is located near the Bahrain International Circuit, with its runway allegedly just 150 meters from Turn 4.

      Suzuka has also been mentioned as a possible alternative for F1, but some sources suggest that teams are less enthusiastic about returning to Japan for a second race this season. Additionally, Formula 1 is awaiting the FIA World Motor Sport Council's decision this weekend regarding postponed World Endurance Championship races in Bahrain and Qatar.

      The fate of the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grands prix later this year may remain uncertain until around mid-September. If either or both are canceled, Portimao is widely seen as the most viable replacement for the season finale, with Istanbul and Imola also being considered.

      George Russell expressed hope that Formula 1 will find enough substitutes to maintain a complete calendar. "I’d love to have a 24-race season and get as many races as possible between here and the end of the season," the Mercedes driver stated in Hungary. "That doesn’t change whether I was in the lead or second or third or fourth. I want to go racing, I love racing, I love the fight, and I hope, if we don’t race in the Middle East, there’s two replacements. I hope we can find maybe a race between Baku and Singapore. I’d be happy to go racing every weekend if I could."