Sepang:Max Verstappen claimed his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, held at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Verstappen, representing Red Bull, started from pole position and overcame a rain-delayed start and tough competition to secure his 72nd career win. The race was marked by a fierce battle towards the end with Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who finished second. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton completed the podium with a remarkable recovery from the back of the field, securing third place just two laps before the race concluded.
The awards ceremony saw His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, present the winner's trophy to Verstappen. The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile Medal was also awarded to Verstappen by its President, His Excellency Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The constructors' trophy was presented to the winning team by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim. Second and third-place trophies were presented to Antonelli and Hamilton by Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa and Khalid Taqi, respectively.
The race was the 16th round of the Formula 1 World Championship and marked the return of F1 to Sepang after nearly a decade. Verstappen crossed the finish line with a time of one hour, 47 minutes, and 14.808 seconds. Despite a narrowing lead due to George Russell's retirement, Verstappen maintained his position, finishing 2.307 seconds ahead of Antonelli.
Hamilton's performance was notable as he climbed the ranks from over a minute behind to finish 4.919 seconds off the lead. Charles Leclerc, Hamilton's teammate, finished fourth, followed by Isack Hadjar in fifth. The remaining top ten positions were occupied by Oscar Piastri, Liam Lawson, Fernando Alonso, Lando Norris, and Arvid Lindblad, all securing championship points.
Other drivers completed the classification, while Russell, Alexander Albon, and Valtteri Bottas did not finish the race.