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via PlanetF1Bahrain Grand Prix begins with first practice in MalaysiaThe Bahrain Grand Prix has commenced with the first practice session at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Key aspects to observe during the event have been highlighted by Chris Medland.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 04:16 UTC
via RacingNews3652026 Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice 1 resultsThe Free Practice 1 session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Full results from the session have been released, detailing the performance of all participating teams and drivers.
+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 03:25 UTC
via racer.comTechnical updates: 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaMercedes is the only Formula 1 team to bring a significant update package to the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, focusing on performance gains. The updates include a completely new floor design with various enhancements, alongside new suspension fairings and tweaks to the rear bodywork to improve aerodynamics.
Other teams are also making updates, with McLaren introducing a circuit-specific engine cover, Alpine enhancing brake cooling components, and Ferrari improving its diffuser. Red Bull and Haas are making minor adjustments, while Williams, Aston Martin, Audi, and Cadillac have not submitted any updates.
Fri 2 Oct · 03:04 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri raises menacing Mercedes concern: 'That's not a great sign'Oscar Piastri has voiced concerns regarding Mercedes' recent performance, particularly after George Russell's dominant victory in Baku and the introduction of a significant upgrade for the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix. Piastri highlighted that Russell's pole position and race win indicate a strong showing from Mercedes, which could pose challenges for McLaren.
Piastri believes that the Sepang circuit's layout may favour McLaren more than Baku did, as it features high-speed corners that align with their strengths. However, he remains cautious about Mercedes' upgrades, which are designed to enhance their cornering capabilities without sacrificing straight-line speed, potentially complicating McLaren's efforts to compete effectively.Thu 1 Oct · 21:00 UTC
via gpfans.comFormer Aston Martin boss claims team is slower than F2 cars in grim data verdictOtmar Szafnauer, the former team principal of Aston Martin, stated that the Formula 1 team was slower than every Formula 2 car in a straight line during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He made these comments on the High Performance Podcast, highlighting the team's struggles with their Honda engines and suggesting that financial constraints related to the cost cap might be affecting their development for the 2027 season.
Szafnauer's claim about Aston Martin's performance was based on free practice data, which showed the team lagging behind F2 cars. However, it was noted that the Aston Martins performed better during the race, exceeding the F2 baseline speed. Despite the criticism of the team's current performance, Szafnauer acknowledged that they might be focusing on future developments while managing their budget.
Thu 1 Oct · 19:57 UTC
via Motorsport.comMcLaren fans say Colapinto's latest interview is keeping the Norris row aliveLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following their clash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where both drivers were involved in a multi-car incident that ended their races. Despite their reconciliation, Colapinto's recent comments in an interview have reignited tensions among fans, who feel the situation is far from resolved.
In the interview, Colapinto critiqued Norris's reaction, comparing it to how Max Verstappen handled a similar incident. This comparison did not sit well with fans, leading to a wave of negative responses on social media. While both drivers have moved on from the incident, the fanbase remains divided, with many still expressing frustration over the events that unfolded in Baku.
Thu 1 Oct · 19:39 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso claims ‘half’ of today’s grid wouldn’t survive Sepang with yesterday's F1 carsFernando Alonso has expressed that he believes half of the current Formula 1 grid would struggle to complete a race at the Sepang International Circuit if they were driving older generation cars. This statement comes as the circuit makes its return to the F1 calendar for the first time since 2017, with many drivers set to experience it for the first time.
Alonso, a three-time race winner at Sepang, reflected on the challenging conditions of the track, particularly the extreme heat. He noted that while modern cars are easier to handle, the older models posed significant difficulties, recalling his own experiences of exhaustion during races in the past. Despite being the oldest driver on the grid at 45, Alonso remains in peak physical condition as he prepares for the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix.
Thu 1 Oct · 19:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Liam Lawson baffled after Arvid Lindblad escaped Baku penaltyLiam Lawson was surprised that his Racing Bulls teammate Arvid Lindblad did not receive a penalty for his role in a crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Lawson's race ended when Lindblad tipped him around at the opening corner, which also eliminated reigning champion Lando Norris from the race.
Despite Lawson's disappointment, he acknowledged the team's overall success in scoring points, as Lindblad managed to finish seventh. Lawson voiced his frustration over team radio during the incident and later reflected on the lack of a penalty, stating he was confused about the decision and felt it might have been treated differently if it involved another driver or team.Thu 1 Oct · 18:20 UTC
via gpfans.comBahrain Grand Prix practice sessions held in MalaysiaThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix is taking place in Malaysia, with practice sessions held at the Sepang International Circuit. Coverage of the event is being provided by Channel 4 for UK fans.+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 17:57 UTC
via PlanetF1Hamilton grilled on Vasseur future, double Bahrain GP penalty imminent – roundupLewis Hamilton has expressed his belief that Fred Vasseur has the full backing of Ferrari amid speculation about Vasseur's future with the team. Ferrari has publicly stated their confidence in Vasseur, who may face changes at the end of the 2026 season.
In other news, the FIA is set to confirm penalties for the Bahrain Grand Prix, with Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad both facing grid penalties. Meanwhile, Lance Stroll has highlighted a significant performance gap due to Honda's power issues, while Charles Leclerc's car was found compliant after a thorough inspection following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.Thu 1 Oct · 16:03 UTC
via the-race.comF1 teams face challenges with rough Sepang trackOscar Piastri has described the rough surface of the Sepang track as resembling 'sandpaper', creating strategic uncertainties for teams ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix. The high levels of degradation expected at the Malaysian circuit are adding to the complexities teams must navigate.
+ 2 moreThu 1 Oct · 15:59 UTC
via Formula1.comInside the chaos of the F1 drivers’ pre-Sepang training campAhead of the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, several Formula 1 drivers participated in a training camp in Langkawi, Malaysia. The trip, which included Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, George Russell, and others, featured activities like karting and chess, allowing the drivers to bond outside of the competitive environment of racing.
Sainz noted that the trip was a spontaneous decision made while coordinating travel plans from Azerbaijan to Malaysia. The drivers enjoyed a mix of training and leisure, with Russell describing the karting experience as chaotic. Despite the fun, the drivers acknowledged the importance of preparing for the upcoming races in Malaysia and Singapore.
Thu 1 Oct · 15:44 UTC
via Motorsport.comStefano Domenicali comments on Fred Vasseur's futureFormula One CEO Stefano Domenicali has addressed speculation surrounding Fred Vasseur's position as Ferrari's team principal, emphasising the need for strong leadership. Domenicali's remarks come amid ongoing discussions about Vasseur's role and the challenges facing the team.+ 2 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:52 UTC
via AutosportLando Norris apologises to Franco Colapinto after backlashLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following his controversial comments after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The reigning Formula 1 champion stated that the apology was intended to help calm the situation after facing significant online criticism.
+ 3 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:17 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell flags tyre overheating concern ahead of Malaysian Grand PrixGeorge Russell has expressed concerns about tyre overheating at the Malaysian Grand Prix, which could complicate overtaking maneuvers. He highlighted that the hot conditions at the Sepang International Circuit may lead to aggressive tyre degradation, making it difficult for drivers to maintain close racing.
With the FIA declaring a heat hazard for the weekend, both Russell and McLaren's Oscar Piastri are preparing for a challenging race. The resurfaced track, which hasn't hosted a race since 2017, may present grip issues, and Friday's practice sessions will be vital for teams to assess tyre performance and adapt to the conditions.Thu 1 Oct · 13:51 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar outlines repeat Red Bull plan after 'huge step'Isack Hadjar is set to approach the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia similarly to his recent performance in Baku, where he achieved a podium finish after recovering from a wrist injury. He missed three races but returned to the RB22 cockpit, benefiting from Red Bull's significant aerodynamic upgrades.
Hadjar plans to take a gradual approach in Malaysia, focusing on acclimatising to the unfamiliar Sepang circuit. He expressed optimism about the upgrades that worked well in Baku but acknowledged the need to adapt to the different track layout in Malaysia.Thu 1 Oct · 13:40 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA confirms Charles Leclerc findings after ‘extensive’ Ferrari inspectionThe FIA conducted an extensive inspection of Charles Leclerc's Ferrari following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, confirming that the car complied with the 2026 Formula One regulations. This inspection was part of the FIA's routine checks for top-10 finishers, and Leclerc's car was randomly selected for further examination.
Leclerc finished fourth in the race, while George Russell from Mercedes took the victory. After the race, Leclerc revealed that he had used the ADUO2 engine, which had raised questions after his crash at Monza. The FIA's checks focused on the internal combustion air intake cooling system and other components, all of which were found to meet the required standards.Thu 1 Oct · 13:05 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli on the hard call that rescued his Azerbaijan GP weekendKimi Antonelli faced a challenging Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, starting from 16th on the grid due to technical difficulties and a crash in qualifying. To salvage his race, he made a strategic decision to drive conservatively, allowing other drivers to make mistakes while he focused on finishing the race safely.
Despite his struggles, Antonelli's fifth-place finish kept him well ahead in the championship standings, with a 66-point lead over his teammate George Russell, who won the race. Antonelli's approach demonstrated maturity and adaptability in a difficult situation, as he prioritised securing points over aggressive driving.Thu 1 Oct · 12:54 UTC
via Sky Sports F1George Russell optimistic about Mercedes upgradesGeorge Russell expressed optimism regarding the substantial aerodynamic upgrades introduced by Mercedes for the Bahrain Grand Prix. He believes these enhancements could significantly improve his performance as he aims to continue his recent success.
+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 12:48 UTC
via Formula1.comAll the stories that got the Malaysia paddock talkingFerrari was a major topic of discussion in the Formula 1 paddock as they returned to Sepang for the Bahrain Grand Prix. Speculation surrounded Team Principal Fred Vasseur's future due to the team's recent performance, having gone five races without a podium finish.
In response to the speculation, Ferrari publicly backed Vasseur earlier in the week. Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc expressed their support for Vasseur, reinforcing the team's commitment to their principal as they prepare for the upcoming race.Thu 1 Oct · 11:52 UTCPage 12 of 32