Max Verstappen takes victory in Malaysia

Max Verstappen claimed his first victory of the 2026-th Formula 1 season by winning the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

The Red Bull's driver started from pole position but initially lost the lead to the Mercedes cars of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. Verstappen soon recovered and worked his way back to the front.

The race was heavily affected by rain, with the start delayed and the opening stages taking place in difficult conditions. The changing track conditions also created a complicated tyre strategy for the teams.

Verstappen eventually regained the lead and controlled the race after the Safety Car period, crossing the finish line 2.307 seconds ahead of Antonelli.

Lewis Hamilton completed the podium for Ferrari after a remarkable recovery drive. The Briton had dropped towards the back of the field after starting the race on slick tyres but fought his way back to third.

Charles Leclerc finished fourth, followed by Verstappen's team-mate Isack Hadjar. Oscar Piastri was sixth, while Lando Norris finished ninth.

George Russell was running in contention for a podium place but retired with five laps remaining after his Mercedes stopped on the start/finish straight.

The victory is Verstappen's 72nd in Formula 1 and Red Bull's first of the 2026 season. It is also the first victory for Red Bull Ford Powertrains.