F1 2026 Bahrain GP: Verstappen wins in Malaysia

The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia delivered a chaotic weekend filled with dramatic twists and strategic gambles. Red Bull driver Max Verstappen overcame a poor start, where he initially lost ground to both Mercedes cars, to master the difficult conditions and secure his maiden win of the season.

Meanwhile, Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton endured a rollercoaster afternoon after a risky team decision to start on slick tyres dropped him all the way from the front row down to 18th place. The veteran British driver mounted a sensational comeback, slicing through the field and passing Isack Hadjar following the final safety car period to clinch a brilliant third-place finish.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Mercedes youngster Kimi Antonelli capitalized on the race events to finish second, extending his drivers' championship lead to 84 points over team-mate George Russell. However, it was a bitter pill to swallow for Russell, who was forced to retire due to a power-unit failure just five laps from the checkered flag while comfortably running in third position.

Elsewhere on the grid, Charles Leclerc fought back to fourth after overcoming grid penalties, while other midfielders maximized chaotic circumstances to salvage valuable championship points during a thoroughly unpredictable weekend in Malaysia.

Source: BBC Sport