A masterclass performance unfolded as Max Verstappen secured his and Red Bull's first victory of the 2026 season at Sepang. According to Motorsport Week, the reigning world champion delivered a measured masterclass across the 56-lap encounter at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, completely bouncing back after feeling they squandered a win in Baku.
Starting from pole position after a stellar Saturday qualifying session, the Dutchman did not get the best launch off the line. However, the sheer pace of his RB22 allowed him to reclaim control, successfully picking off his rivals and extending a comfortable gap to seal the 72nd Grand Prix victory of his illustrious career.
Meanwhile, teammate Hadjar experienced a rollercoaster afternoon, ultimately slipping to fifth at the chequered flag following a chaotic second Safety Car restart. Despite starting from the fourth row due to a power unit penalty, the French-Algerian driver unlocked strong race pace before being swallowed up by late-race drama.
Over at Mercedes, Antonelli once again emerged as the leading Silver Arrows contender by finishing in second place. Though he briefly led the race, the young Italian acknowledged that his approach has shifted towards consistency and points to secure his maiden championship crown.
Conversely, disaster struck for George Russell, whose race ended in a late retirement due to an engine failure, severely damaging his title aspirations. Amidst the chaos, Lewis Hamilton drove brilliantly to extract maximum performance from his Ferrari charger and claim the final spot on the podium.
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