Why is the F1 Bahrain GP taking place 6,000 km away in Malaysia?

Malaysia, which is around 6,000 km from Bahrain, will host the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 on Sunday. This comes after the race was postponed from April due to Middle East tensions. The race will be held at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit while retaining the 'Bahrain Grand Prix' name. Bahrain and Malaysia share close diplomatic ties dating back to 1974.