Andrea Kimi AntonelliGeorge RussellJoe James 
via espn.comVerstappen: Russell winning title 'not impossible'Max Verstappen has stated that George Russell requires a significant improvement to have a chance at catching Kimi Antonelli in the world championship standings. Heading into the Bahrain Grand Prix, Russell is currently 66 points behind Antonelli, who has won eight races this season compared to Russell's three. Despite a strong performance in Azerbaijan, where Russell led every lap, the gap remains substantial.
Verstappen highlighted the challenges Russell faces, noting the differences in driving styles and the impact of new regulations on performance. He acknowledged Antonelli's exceptional talent and the difficulties rookies encounter with the current ground-effect cars. As the drivers prepare for the physically demanding conditions in Malaysia, both Russell and Antonelli will need to overcome their practice mistakes to improve their standings.
espn.comFri 2 Oct · 12:47 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell warns of Mercedes struggles in BahrainGeorge Russell has expressed concerns about Mercedes' performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, stating that the car is 'off the pace' compared to rivals Red Bull and McLaren. Despite a significant upgrade, Russell believes adjustments are necessary to improve competitiveness.
RacingNews365+ 2 moreFri 2 Oct · 10:50 UTC
via newsonf1.comAntonelli considering Monaco moveOct.2 (GMM) Kimi Antonelli could soon join Formula 1’s growing Monaco contingent, with Prince Albert revealing that the Mercedes championship leader is considering moving to the Principality. Antonelli, who was born in Bologna and currently lives in San Marino, moved away from the family home as his Formula 1 career accelerated. Prince Albert revealed the…newsonf1.comFri 2 Oct · 07:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMercedes just dealt George Russell a bigger ‘drop off’ blow than Max Verstappen’s pace at SepangDuring Practice 1 of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, George Russell secured second place but faced significant tyre degradation issues, as confirmed by Mercedes. Max Verstappen dominated the session, finishing 0.383 seconds ahead of Russell, raising concerns for the Mercedes team regarding their performance.
Russell inquired about the tyre situation over the radio, revealing that Mercedes was struggling compared to Red Bull. The team indicated that they were the outliers in terms of tyre performance, which could lead to a challenging race weekend if not addressed. Russell is hoping for rain to potentially alter the tyre dynamics in his favour.
f1oversteer.comFri 2 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen leads opening practice at Bahrain GPMax Verstappen of Red Bull set the fastest time in the first practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. He was followed closely by George Russell, marking a competitive start to the event.
Motorsport.com+ 8 moreFri 2 Oct · 05:38 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen leads first practice in MalaysiaMax Verstappen recorded the fastest time in the first practice session at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver outpaced George Russell, setting a strong tone for the weekend.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 05:31 UTC
via CrashKimi Antonelli tops Free Practice 3 in BahrainKimi Antonelli secured the fastest time in Free Practice 3 for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia. The session took place at the Sepang International Circuit as teams prepared for the upcoming qualifying rounds.
Crash+ 6 moreFri 2 Oct · 05:31 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.RacingNews365+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 03:25 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.RacingNews365Thu 1 Oct · 21:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli makes eye-catching Mercedes F1 admission after 'conscious decision'Kimi Antonelli has acknowledged his personal growth in Formula 1, particularly after his performance in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix where he finished fifth. He started the race from 16th due to a wall collision during qualifying, marking a significant recovery that he attributes to a conscious decision to drive within his limits rather than risk a potential no-score.
Reflecting on his progress over the past year, Antonelli stated that he would not have been capable of such a strategic approach 12 months ago. He recognised the importance of securing points in challenging situations, especially after a disrupted weekend filled with difficulties, and expressed satisfaction with his decision to prioritize a safe finish over aggressive driving.RacingNews365Thu 1 Oct · 17:40 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.Motorsport.comThu 1 Oct · 13:51 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.Motorsport.comThu 1 Oct · 12:54 UTC
via Sky Sports F1George Russell confident ahead of title challengeGeorge Russell expressed optimism about his chances in the Formula 1 championship, stating he is no longer 'lost' in his Mercedes. He believes the team's recent car upgrade will enhance his performance as he aims to close the gap on Kimi Antonelli.
Sky Sports F1+ 3 moreThu 1 Oct · 12:48 UTC
via BBC SportRUMOURRussell says his 'confidence is back and growing'George Russell expressed renewed confidence following his recent victory in Azerbaijan, stating he no longer feels lost and is ready to compete for wins consistently. With seven or eight races remaining, he aims to close the 66-point gap to his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Russell noted that he has adjusted his driving style to better suit the Mercedes car, allowing him to focus more on speed rather than adjustments.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton backed Ferrari's team principal Frederic Vasseur amidst speculation about his future, asserting that removing him would be a mistake. Hamilton highlighted Ferrari's improvement this season, noting their second place in the constructors' championship despite a power deficit compared to rivals. He emphasised the importance of building on their progress and maintaining a strong foundation for future success.
BBC SportThu 1 Oct · 11:07 UTC
via Formula1.comAntonelli believes Russell has ‘got the momentum’Kimi Antonelli has expressed his belief that George Russell has gained significant momentum following his recent victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite maintaining a 66-point lead in the drivers' standings, Antonelli acknowledges the challenge Russell poses, especially after his strong performance in Baku where he secured pole position and ultimately won the race.
Looking ahead to the Bahrain Grand Prix, Antonelli is optimistic about the upgrades Mercedes will introduce, which he hopes will enhance the car's grip and downforce. He is eager to test his skills on the Sepang circuit, noting the importance of improving in areas such as managing long corners. Antonelli remains focused on achieving the best results and is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
Formula1.comThu 1 Oct · 10:19 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen says George Russell needs big turnaroundMax Verstappen has stated that George Russell requires a significant improvement to catch his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the 2026 Formula One title race, with Russell currently 66 points behind. Meanwhile, Mercedes chief Bradley Lord has expressed concerns about Russell's ability to close the gap as the season progresses.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 10:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli target Australia's iconic Bathurst 12 Hour raceMax Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli are set to compete in the Bathurst 12 Hour race in early 2027, with the event taking place on February 14 at Mount Panorama Circuit in New South Wales. Other Formula 1 stars, including Lance Stroll and Valtteri Bottas, have also expressed interest in participating in this prestigious GT3 event.
Verstappen is expected to race with his own team, Verstappen Racing, supported by Mercedes AMG. He has previously shown strong performance in endurance racing, nearly winning the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2026. Antonelli, the current F1 championship leader, has familial ties to the GT3 scene, as his father manages a team in the Italian GT championship.
gpfans.comThu 1 Oct · 07:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli expects major gains from Mercedes upgradesAndrea Kimi Antonelli has stated that Mercedes' engineers anticipate a significant improvement in lap times from their upcoming updates at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. Bernie Collins has noted that rivals are closely monitoring the W17 following these developments.newsonf1.com+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 07:14 UTC%2FGettyImages-2297993516.webp&w=1200&q=70)
via Formula1.com1 videoBahrain 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.Formula1.com+ 3 moreThu 1 Oct · 05:35 UTC
via f1chronicle.com1 videoSepang hosts Bahrain Grand Prix after nine yearsThe Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend, marking its return to Formula 1 after a nine-year absence. The event was relocated from Bahrain, where it was originally scheduled for April.
f1chronicle.com+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 21:50 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli has "spooked himself" amid F1 title pressure, says Naomi SchiffNaomi Schiff has expressed concerns about Kimi Antonelli's mental state as he leads the Formula 1 championship. She noted that Antonelli seems to be feeling the pressure, which was evident during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix where he finished fifth after starting from 16th, while his teammate George Russell won the race.
Schiff highlighted that Antonelli needs to overcome this psychological hurdle to avoid jeopardising his championship lead. Despite a challenging race, he still maintains a 66-point advantage over Russell, but Schiff warns that if Antonelli continues to feel 'spooked,' it could affect his performance in the remaining races.Motorsport.comWed 30 Sep · 20:20 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell details F1 drivers' Langkawi boys' trip ahead of Bahrain GP in MalaysiaGeorge Russell, a driver for Mercedes, has shared insights about a recent trip to Langkawi, Malaysia, which he took with six other Formula 1 drivers ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix. The trip featured activities such as go-karting and sightseeing, with Russell expressing his admiration for the island's beauty and the friendliness of its people. He noted that the itinerary was influenced by Mercedes' title partner, Petronas.
In addition to Russell, Kimi Antonelli, his teammate, arrived in Malaysia early but chose to explore Kuala Lumpur and visit a water park. Antonelli currently leads the championship standings by 66 points, following Russell's victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The trip served as a unique way for the drivers to bond and prepare for the upcoming race.Motorsport.comWed 30 Sep · 19:56 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes braced for tougher strategy calls as George Russell closes on Kimi AntonelliMercedes Formula 1 team is preparing for more challenging strategy decisions as George Russell narrows the championship gap to his teammate Kimi Antonelli. Following a dominant victory in Baku, Russell has reduced Antonelli's lead from 81 to 66 points, prompting team principal Toto Wolff to emphasise the importance of equitable treatment for both drivers in race strategies.
With eight races remaining in the season, Russell's resurgence has shifted the dynamics within the team. Wolff noted that the team must carefully evaluate strategy calls to ensure both drivers have equal opportunities, especially as they aim to maintain a competitive edge over their rivals. Additionally, Mercedes has introduced a special livery for the W17 to celebrate the return of the Malaysian Grand Prix.Motorsport.comWed 30 Sep · 12:47 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell comments on Mercedes' Bahrain upgradeGeorge Russell provided his initial thoughts on Mercedes' substantial upgrade package for the W17 at the Bahrain Grand Prix. He noted that while the changes are significant, their impact may be obscured by ongoing tyre issues.RacingNews365+ 6 moreWed 30 Sep · 11:40 UTC