Max Verstappen edges Mercedes out by winning wet-dry thriller at Sepang

Max Verstappen achieved his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix held in Sepang, Malaysia. He started the race from pole position and managed to fend off competition from Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who finished in second place, while Lewis Hamilton completed the podium in third after overcoming early race difficulties.

The race faced delays due to heavy rain, which led to strategic decisions regarding tyre choices. Verstappen's decision to start on Intermediate tyres proved advantageous as he navigated through the challenging conditions. Despite a sluggish start, he regained his position and ultimately took the lead, maintaining a significant gap over Antonelli to secure the win.