Verstappen wins chaotic rain-delayed Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia
- On Sunday, October 4, 2026, Max Verstappen won the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit, claiming his first victory of the 2026 season after heavy rain delayed the start by more than 90 minutes.
- The race relocated to Malaysia due to the Iran-US conflict, marking Formula 1's first return to the Sepang International Circuit since 2017 after the original Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled in April.
- Heavy rain and software issues on the formation lap created chaos before the race began; Verstappen led championship leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari across the finish line in wet conditions.
- Antonelli extended his championship lead to 84 points over teammate George Russell, who retired late with a power unit failure, while Hamilton's third place ended a five-race podium drought for Ferrari.
- Geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East continues to impact the 2026 calendar, with F1 executives evaluating the feasibility of future events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi amid ongoing regional tensions.
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For the first time in ten months, Max Verstappen has won a Grand Prix again. The race in Malaysia started comically: many cars were confused by the rainy conditions and refused to step on the gas.
Max Verstappen wins rain-delayed Bahrain Grand Prix as George Russell retires
Red Bull's Max Verstappen won the rain-hit Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia on Sunday, claiming his first win of the season after the race was delayed by more than 90 minutes due to heavy rain at the Sepang International Circuit.
The 16th round of the Formula 1 race took place in Malaysia on Sunday, with Max Verstappen (Red Bull) taking his first victory of the season. However, the start of the race was significantly delayed due to prolonged rain.
Strolling rain, striking cars, delayed start: Formula 1 is experiencing an exciting comeback in Sepang. Max Verstappen is celebrating his first win in the season, but the World Cup fight seems decided.
The Formula 1 World Championship round in Malaysia was won by Max Verstappen (Red Bull), who beat Italian Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes; +2.307) and Briton Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari; +4.919).
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