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via f1oversteer.comMcLaren can forget about winning in Malaysia as the FIA reveal straight-mode zones for race weekendMcLaren is preparing for a challenging Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, having faced difficulties in the previous race in Baku where both drivers failed to score points. Lando Norris did not finish due to a collision, while Oscar Piastri struggled with brake issues. Andrea Stella has pointed out significant concerns regarding the team's straight-line speed, which could hinder their performance in Malaysia.
The FIA has announced four straight-mode zones for the upcoming race, which could exacerbate McLaren's existing speed problems. This will be the first visit to the Sepang International Circuit since 2017, and with McLaren's recent struggles at circuits with multiple straight-mode zones, the team faces an uphill battle unless they can improve their performance significantly.
Wed 30 Sep · 11:30 UTC
via Formula1.comAll you need to know about the Sepang International CircuitThe Sepang International Circuit, located in Malaysia, has a length of 5.543 kilometres and features 15 turns, with a total race distance of 310.398 kilometres. The circuit previously hosted Formula 1 races from 1999 until 2017, and it will see its first Grand Prix since then due to a schedule change that moved the Bahrain Grand Prix to October. The inaugural race was won by Eddie Irvine driving for Ferrari, establishing Sepang as a notable venue in F1 history.
Driving at Sepang is described as a challenging experience, with a mix of high-speed sections and tricky braking zones. Only ten current drivers have raced there before, leading to a steep learning curve for many. The circuit is also known for its unpredictable weather, which can significantly impact race conditions. Additionally, new aerodynamic configurations like Straight Mode and Overtake Mode will be in use, enhancing the racing experience at this historic track.
Wed 30 Sep · 11:02 UTC
via Formula1.comFacts, stats and trivia ahead of the 2026 Bahrian GPThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, marking Round 16 of the Formula 1 season. Free Practice sessions are scheduled for October 2 and 3, with Qualifying on October 3 and the race on October 4. The circuit, known for its unique design by Hermann Tilke, has a length of 5.543 km and has seen notable performances from drivers like Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.
Recent updates to the circuit include resurfacing work, which aims to improve grip levels. Teams will face challenges with thermal management and a lack of data relevant to the current generation of cars. Weather conditions, including potential thunderstorms, could also impact the race weekend. Current standings show Kimi Antonelli leading despite a tough outing in Baku, while George Russell recently secured his third victory of the season.Wed 30 Sep · 11:02 UTC
via F1iToto Wolff perplexed by Mercedes' Sepang upgrade strugglesMercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed confusion over the team's performance following their latest upgrades at the Malaysian Grand Prix. Despite expectations of a three-tenths improvement, Wolff noted that the W17 car instead lost five-tenths due to increased drag and poor handling in low-speed corners.
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via Formula1.comBahrain Grand Prix to face rain challenges in MalaysiaThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, is expected to encounter significant weather challenges this weekend. Forecasts indicate the possibility of thunderstorms and rain, which could impact the race conditions for teams and drivers.+ 4 moreWed 30 Sep · 10:31 UTC
via PlanetF1Verstappen warns Mercedes upgrade may shift competitionMax Verstappen expressed caution regarding the impact of Mercedes' significant upgrades ahead of the Sepang practice session. Despite dominating the first practice, Verstappen acknowledged that the changes could alter the competitive landscape in Formula 1.
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via Formula1.comWhat tyres will the teams have for the Bahrain Grand Prix?Pirelli has confirmed the tyre compounds for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, marking Formula 1's return to Malaysia after nine years. The selected compounds are C2, C3, and C4, designated as hard, medium, and soft respectively. Each driver will receive two sets of hard tyres, three sets of medium, and eight sets of soft, with an additional set of softs for those qualifying in Q3. Drivers are required to use at least two different slick compounds during the race if conditions are dry.
The Sepang circuit is known for its abrasive surface and medium energy levels, similar to those at Spa-Francorchamps and Shanghai. Pirelli's choice of compounds aims to provide teams with a broader strategic range. With recent resurfacing and levelling work done on the track, grip levels are expected to improve throughout the weekend. However, teams will face challenges due to a lack of available data for the current generation of cars, making Friday practice sessions particularly important for familiarisation and tyre assessment.Wed 30 Sep · 09:58 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen on pole for Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaMax Verstappen secured pole position for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia after dominating the qualifying sessions. The race will take place at the Sepang circuit on Sunday, October 4.
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via RaceFansMercedes unveils special livery for Bahrain GPMercedes has revealed a one-off livery for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, celebrating the return of Formula 1 to the Sepang International Circuit. The design pays tribute to the team's title sponsor, Petronas, marking the occasion as significant for both the team and the event.
+ 5 moreWed 30 Sep · 07:45 UTCWikimedia Commons · Yu Chu Chin · CC BY-SA 4.0Schumacher and Danner back Antonelli's recovery in MalaysiaRalf Schumacher and Christian Danner have expressed confidence that Kimi Antonelli will rebound from his challenging weekend in Baku. Both analysts believe that the upcoming upgrades from Mercedes at the Sepang circuit will help the championship leader regain his form.Wikimedia Commons · Christijan_Albers_2006.JPG: Mathieu Felten derivative work: Flyz1 · CC BY 2.5Albers says Piastri lacks Verstappen’s ‘bite’Sep.30 (GMM) Oscar Piastri’s difficult run has drawn fresh criticism after his mistake in Baku, with former F1 driver Christijan Albers questioning whether the McLaren driver has the aggression of a driver like Max Verstappen. The Australian had been on course for the 2025 title before his late-season collapse, and his struggles have continued into…
via Motorsport.comHow Carlos Sainz bounced back from the most difficult moment of his F1 careerCarlos Sainz, reflecting on his time with Williams ahead of the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, shared his mixed feelings about the current season. Despite feeling at the peak of his driving abilities, he has faced significant challenges due to the performance of the FW48, leading to a frustrating year without the expected results.
Sainz expressed his commitment to the Williams project, citing trust in the team's vision and the supportive environment he has found there. He highlighted the importance of feeling listened to as a driver and compared his current experience to his successful years at McLaren. Sainz remains hopeful for improvement in the future as he continues to contribute his expertise to the team.
Wed 30 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli praises Max Verstappen's unique skillsKimi Antonelli has described Max Verstappen's abilities as 'incredible' following their recent wheel-to-wheel battles in Formula 1. Antonelli's comments highlight the unique advantages Verstappen possesses, which he observed during their encounters on track.
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via f1oversteer.comBahrain Grand Prix takes place in Malaysia this weekendThe Bahrain Grand Prix is set to occur at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia from 2 to 4 October 2026. This event marks a unique occasion as half of the drivers on the grid will be racing at this track for the first time.+ 5 moreWed 30 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Verstappen and Hamilton on front row in MalaysiaMax Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton will start on the front row for the 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. This marks the first Formula 1 race in Malaysia in nine years, following last-minute adjustments to the starting grid.+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 05:02 UTC
via Motorsport WeekBaku’s autumn double-header: Why the Grand Prix is only the first act…The Azerbaijan Grand Prix took place on 26 September, marking the 10th edition of the event in Baku. George Russell from Mercedes claimed victory after 51 laps on the street circuit, which has gained a reputation for its thrilling races since its introduction in 2016. The race was strategically moved to avoid clashing with Remembrance Day, showcasing Baku's desire to integrate its major events into a broader cultural calendar.
Following the Grand Prix, Baku will host the second edition of the Baku International Arts Festival from 28 October to 8 November. This festival aims to attract the same international audience that attended the Grand Prix, featuring over 20 events in theatre, ballet, and music. The city is keen to demonstrate that it offers more than just motorsport, with performances from renowned artists and companies set to take place in venues close to the Grand Prix circuit.
Tue 29 Sep · 23:58 UTC/It's%20Race%20Week%20HEADER%20Bahrain%20Malaysia.webp)
via Formula1.comBahrain Grand Prix scheduled for October 2-4, 2026The Bahrain Grand Prix will take place from October 2 to 4, 2026, as part of the Formula 1 season. Fans in Malaysia can find coverage details from various broadcasters, including the BBC.Tue 29 Sep · 21:12 UTC
via Formula1.comFernando Alonso calls Sepang return a golden ticketFernando Alonso described Formula 1's return to the Sepang International Circuit as a 'golden ticket', expressing surprise at the opportunity to race in Malaysia again. Lewis Hamilton also highlighted the significance of the event, noting two key reasons for the sport's return to the venue.+ 2 moreTue 29 Sep · 21:12 UTC
via f1chronicle.comSergio Perez Calls Pointless Baku Weekend ‘One of My Best’ as Cadillac’s Struggles ContinueSergio Perez has declared his Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend as one of his best despite finishing outside the points. After starting from P20 due to a grid penalty, he managed to recover to 14th place, matching his best result of the season with Cadillac, who are still seeking their first points in Formula 1.
Despite the lack of points, Perez expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting that he felt competitive throughout the race. He acknowledged the need for improvements in Cadillac's car to enhance their competitiveness, particularly in straight-line speed, as they aim for a points finish before the end of the season.
Tue 29 Sep · 20:49 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAlex Brundle knows what Liam Lawson should tell Racing Bulls in private after Arvid Lindblad crashLiam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad were involved in a controversial incident during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Lindblad's collision with Lawson resulted in the Kiwi finishing 12th. Despite Lawson's sarcastic radio message expressing his frustration, he will not protest the incident, as experts believe he did nothing wrong.
Alex Brundle suggested that Lawson should inform Racing Bulls that he was taken out by his teammate. While Lindblad received criticism for his driving, he managed to score points for the team, and Lawson's performance is still viewed positively for his future with Racing Bulls.Tue 29 Sep · 20:00 UTCPage 15 of 32