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Verstappen Wins Bahrain as Red Bull’s Ford Power Unit Debuts

By Drooid · Oct 4, 2026, 2:23 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Verstappen Claims Bahrain Win

Max Verstappen claimed his 72nd career win at the Bahrain Grand Prix on 4 October 2026.
The victory gave Red Bull Ford Powertrains its first win with its own power unit.
Heavy rain postponed the start by 90 minutes and forced a suspended formation lap.
Mercedes driver George Russell retired while running third after a failure during safety-car periods.
Kimi Antonelli finished second and leads the championship by 84 points over Russell.

Summary

Salman Relocates Grand Prix

Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa negotiated moving the Bahrain Grand Prix to Malaysia.
The move follows cancellations of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix because of Middle East war.
Rosewater will replace champagne on the podium and the Bahrain trophy will be presented.
Sepang Circuit will host Bahrain-related cultural activities all weekend.
It marks Formula 1’s first visit to Malaysia since 2017, reviving Sepang after a nine-year hiatus.

History

Historical Context

Built between 1997 and 1999 under Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Sepang International Circuit hosted its first Malaysian Grand Prix in 1999, joining the Formula 1 calendar until the 37th—and final—World Championship race on 1 October 2017. Rising hosting fees and falling attendance led officials to end the contract, prompting later discussions about reviving the venue for emerging Asian markets.

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Verstappen Claims Bahrain Win

Max Verstappen claimed his 72nd career win at the Bahrain Grand Prix on 4 October 2026.
The victory gave Red Bull Ford Powertrains its first win with its own power unit.
Heavy rain postponed the start by 90 minutes and forced a suspended formation lap.
Mercedes driver George Russell retired while running third after a failure during safety-car periods.
Kimi Antonelli finished second and leads the championship by 84 points over Russell.

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