From Motorsport · Filip Cleeren · · 2m
Bahrain GP Winners and Losers
Max Verstappen wins with Red Bull Ford Powertrains' first victory.
In brief
Max Verstappen wins with Red Bull Ford Powertrains' first victory. Max Verstappen secured his 72nd F1 win and Red Bull Ford Powertrains' first victory in Malaysia after overcoming software issues and wet weather. Originally reported by Motorsport.
Bahrain GP in Malaysia
Formula 1 held its one-off event in Sepang on October 4, 2026, with significant logistical issues affecting spectators.
Wet Weather Challenges
The season's first wet-weather race faced software issues and changing weather conditions, with a safety car interrupting the race.
Max Verstappen Wins
Max Verstappen secured his 72nd F1 win with Red Bull Racing, overcoming software issues and wet weather to end a winless season.
Red Bull Ford Powertrains
Red Bull Ford Powertrains achieved its first victory with Verstappen's win, marking a milestone for the power unit manufacturer.
Mercedes Disappointment
Mercedes' upgraded W17 underperformed in Malaysia due to rough tarmac and increased drag, with George Russell's engine failing.
Lewis Hamilton's Race
Hamilton struggled with slicks on a wet track but recovered to finish on the podium after a safety car reset.
McLaren Regression
McLaren's pace vanished on Malaysia's circuit, with Lando Norris dropping due to power unit issues and slow drying conditions.
Racing Bulls Success
Liam Lawson secured a strong finish for Racing Bulls despite engine penalties, with Arvid Lindblad scoring a point.
Audi's Struggles
Audi's Hulkenberg was overtaken by Lindblad on the final lap, with a safety car disrupting his timing.
Aston Martin Points
Fernando Alonso scored points for Aston Martin after a balanced chassis performance in Malaysia, despite a mid-race safety car.
Next Race Preview
Alonso expressed confidence in Singapore's circuit, calling it better than Malaysia for upcoming races.
Event Outcome
The Malaysia race highlighted Red Bull's progress with Mercedes struggling, while Hamilton and Aston Martin secured points.
What Happens Next
Mercedes and McLaren face Singapore Grand Prix to assess their performance after Malaysia's challenges.
The main idea
Max Verstappen secured his 72nd F1 win and Red Bull Ford Powertrains' first victory in Malaysia after overcoming software issues and wet weather.
