Carlos PaceCharles LeclercGeorge RussellLando Norris 
via f1oversteer.com22 videosCharles Leclerc sets fastest time in Bahrain FP2Charles Leclerc achieved the fastest lap during the second free practice session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Meanwhile, Mercedes struggled to keep pace with the frontrunners.
f1oversteer.com+ 2 moreFri 2 Oct · 09:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc beats the heat but Max Verstappen has overall edgeCharles Leclerc managed to secure the top spot in the second practice session ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, overcoming extreme heat conditions. However, it was Max Verstappen who recorded the fastest lap of the day during the first practice session, showcasing Red Bull's competitive edge.
In FP1, Verstappen clocked a time of 1:37.520s, narrowly beating Leclerc's FP2 time of 1:37.528s. The high track temperatures forced teams to adapt their strategies, with many drivers switching to soft tyres earlier than planned. Lewis Hamilton faced scrutiny for an incident involving another driver, while Lando Norris and Isack Hadjar also performed well, finishing third and fourth respectively in FP2.
RacingNews365Fri 2 Oct · 09:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comFerrari faces new Sepang challenge as Fred Vasseur reveals weekend focusFerrari's team principal Fred Vasseur has stated that the team will concentrate on race pace during the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. This decision comes as a response to the challenges posed by severe tyre degradation, contrasting with the recent low-degradation circuits they have encountered.
Vasseur highlighted that the team had to adjust their aerodynamic set-up in the previous Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to grip issues. He anticipates that the competitive landscape will shift significantly at Sepang, with Max Verstappen leading the first practice session. Ferrari currently sits second in the constructors' standings, trailing Mercedes by 160 points.
Motorsport.comFri 2 Oct · 08:48 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc test rare Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale at FioranoLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc recently conducted a track test of the limited-edition Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale at Fiorano. This super GT is powered by a 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine that delivers 830 horsepower, and it features a unique Manuale-By-Wire system that enhances the driving experience with a manual gearbox feel.
During the test, Leclerc was the first to drive, with Hamilton as his passenger. Both drivers expressed their enjoyment of the car, with Leclerc praising Hamilton's calm demeanor and Hamilton describing the experience as 'fantastico'. The test video has garnered significant attention online, highlighting the excitement surrounding this new Ferrari model.Motorsport.comFri 2 Oct · 08:05 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.comFranco Colapinto: "No one" talks about how I receive social media abuse following Baku clashFranco Colapinto, the Alpine driver, has spoken out about the social media abuse he has faced following a collision during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He highlighted that while he has received significant backlash, the issue of online hate extends beyond just his situation and involves fans from various backgrounds, not solely from Argentina.
Colapinto urged for greater awareness among drivers regarding the impact of their words and the need for collective action to address the problem of online abuse. He also mentioned that he is facing grid penalties for his actions in Baku, while Lando Norris, who initially reacted strongly to the incident, later issued an apology.Motorsport.comFri 2 Oct · 06:27 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 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 f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton snubbed as Emerson Fittipaldi picks Oscar Piastri among his five favourite F1 driversEmerson Fittipaldi believes Ferrari have two “strong drivers” in Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, but neither rank among the Brazilian’s favourites on the 2026 grid. ...f1oversteer.comThu 1 Oct · 20:00 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.Motorsport.comThu 1 Oct · 19:39 UTC
via Motorsport.comLando Norris apologises to Franco Colapinto after BakuLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following controversial comments made after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Norris expressed regret over his remarks, which called for a race ban for Colapinto and led to significant online backlash.Motorsport.com+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:14 UTC
via RaceFansNorris calls for “respect and humility” after “death threats” on social media | Formula 1Lando Norris has spoken out against the death threats he received on social media following his collision with Franco Colapinto during a recent race. He expressed that such threats are unacceptable and called for respect and humility in the sport.
Norris also apologised to Colapinto for his critical comments after the incident, where he suggested that Colapinto did not deserve to compete in Formula 1. He emphasised that while he usually maintains composure, the situation had pushed him to react strongly.
RaceFansThu 1 Oct · 14:04 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 espn.comNorris calls for action to tackle online abuseLando Norris has urged Formula 1 and social media platforms to take stronger measures against online abuse following a backlash he faced after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After suggesting that Alpine driver Franco Colapinto should be banned for a collision, Norris was inundated with negative messages, prompting him to publicly apologise on Instagram.
In his comments, Norris acknowledged the need for better management of online discourse, particularly regarding extreme reactions like death threats. Colapinto, who accepted the apology, expressed surprise at Norris' public criticism, noting that both drivers have experienced the negative side of fan interactions. He emphasised the importance of being mindful of the impact of words on social media.
espn.comThu 1 Oct · 13:41 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.
PlanetF1Thu 1 Oct · 13:05 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 Formula1.comNorris apologises to Colapinto for Baku commentsLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following his strong criticism of the Alpine driver after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Norris clarified that he felt it was important to address his comments, which he initially expressed privately.
Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 11:37 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 f1oversteer.comRUMOURLeclerc criticises rumours about Vasseur's futureCharles Leclerc has described the speculation surrounding Fred Vasseur's position as Ferrari team principal as 'silly' and noted that he observed Ferrari employees engaging in behaviour that is 'not good'. Will Buxton also warned that replacing Vasseur with Christian Horner would be 'absolutely ludicrous'.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 11:00 UTC
via lightsoutblog.com2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia: Milestones and F1 Records Which Could Be BrokenThe 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place at Sepang International Circuit, marks a significant return for Formula 1 to Malaysia after a nine-year hiatus. This race will be the 1,165th in World Championship history and the first time a country has hosted another country's F1 race since 2006. Notably, it is also the fourth F1 race ever held on October 4, with twelve drivers on the grid making their debut at this circuit.
Several records are on the line during the event, including Lando Norris aiming for his 50th podium finish, which would place him among the top British drivers. Lewis Hamilton could break the pole position record at Sepang, while Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso have a chance to match Felipe Massa's record for sixth place finishes. Additionally, a victory for Max Verstappen would mark his 11th consecutive season with a win, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.lightsoutblog.comThu 1 Oct · 10:56 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