# Hamilton Suspects Win Fight Without Slicks

> Hamilton says he could have won Bahrain GP if he started on slicks instead of intermediates.
- Title: Hamilton Suspects Win Fight Without Slicks · RaceFans
- Summary: Hamilton says he could have won Bahrain GP if he started on slicks instead of intermediates. Hamilton believes starting on slick tyres at Sepang would have…
- Keywords: lewis hamilton, max verstappen, sepan, bahrain grand prix, slick tyres, intermediate tyres, formula 1, sports, cars, Hamilton, Suspects, Win
- Source: RaceFans — https://racefans.net/2026/10/04/hamilton-suspects-he-could-have-fought-for-win-had-he-started-on-slicks
- Published: 2026-10-04T15:07:49+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: lewis hamilton, max verstappen, sepan, bahrain grand prix, f1, slick tyres, intermediate tyres, formula 1, sports, cars
## Hamilton Qualifies Second
Lewis Hamilton qualified second at Sepang for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix.
## Rain Delays Start
Rain delayed the race start, followed by a software problem that slowed drivers including Hamilton and Verstappen.
## Hamilton's Team Strategy
Hamilton and his team chose slick tyres after confirming the track was still wet during the formation lap.
## Track Drying Slowly
The track took time to dry, giving drivers with intermediates a significant advantage at the start.
## Hamilton's Race Strategy
Hamilton urged his team not to pit him again, waiting for the track to dry before making progress.
## Hamilton's Win Hope
Hamilton believes he could have fought for victory had he started on slick tyres instead of intermediates.
## Key takeaway

Hamilton believes starting on slick tyres at Sepang would have given him a better chance to win the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix.