Charles LeclercFred GambleLewis Hamilton 
via RacingNews365Lando Norris reflects on McLaren's struggles in MalaysiaLando Norris acknowledged that McLaren lacked the pace to compete effectively at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The British driver finished ninth after a late-race incident and an unsuccessful tyre strategy.
RacingNews365+ 1 moreSat 3 Oct · 10:50 UTC
via racer.com1 videoFive years on from the Abu Dhabi debacle, Verstappen and Hamilton are sharing the front row againMax Verstappen achieved his first pole position of the season during qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. His impressive lap time placed him nearly three-tenths of a second ahead of Lewis Hamilton, who qualified in second place for Ferrari.
Isack Hadjar qualified third, while Kimi Antonelli, the current title leader, secured fourth in his Mercedes. Charles Leclerc completed the top five, finishing half a second slower than Verstappen's leading time.
racer.comSat 3 Oct · 13:17 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton praises Ferrari's qualifying adjustmentsLewis Hamilton has commended Ferrari for making a late set-up change that he believes helped them 'hit the sweet spot' during qualifying at the Sepang International Circuit. As a result, Hamilton secured second place on the grid for the Bahrain Grand Prix.RacingNews365+ 2 moreSat 3 Oct · 09:18 UTC
via RaceFansMax Verstappen secures first pole of 2026 in MalaysiaMax Verstappen achieved his first pole position of the 2026 Formula 1 season during qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The result marks a significant milestone for Red Bull, as it is their first pole with their in-house power unit developed in collaboration with Ford.
RaceFans+ 7 moreSat 3 Oct · 09:10 UTC
via RacingNews3651 videoVerstappen takes pole ahead of Hamilton in MalaysiaMax Verstappen secured pole position for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, marking Red Bull's first pole of the season. Lewis Hamilton will start alongside him on the front row, reigniting their historic rivalry.RacingNews365+ 2 moreSat 3 Oct · 09:09 UTC
via PlanetF144 videosVerstappen claims pole position for Bahrain Grand PrixMax Verstappen secured his first pole position of the 2026 Formula 1 season during qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. The Red Bull driver outpaced Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton, who will start in second place.
PlanetF1+ 10 moreSat 3 Oct · 09:05 UTC
via RaceFans22 videosqualifying results for 2026 Bahrain Grand PrixQualifying for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. The session focused on the battle for pole position ahead of the race.RaceFans+ 1 moreSat 3 Oct · 09:03 UTC
via Motorsport.comCharles Leclerc reveals touching fan gesture that always makes him emotionalFerrari driver Charles Leclerc shared that hand-drawn pictures from young fans are the gifts that touch him the most. In a social media video, he expressed how these interactions during race weekends stand out, particularly when children present their artwork to him. Leclerc keeps these drawings at home, as they remind him of his own childhood dreams of becoming a Formula 1 driver.
In addition to his reflections on fan interactions, Leclerc is preparing for a new chapter in his life as he and his wife, Alexandra, are expecting their first child. He expressed pride in becoming a father and acknowledged the challenges ahead, while also looking forward to the positivity it will bring. Currently, he sits fifth in the drivers' standings, trailing championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 123 points.
Motorsport.comSat 3 Oct · 08:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton on Malaysia front rowMax Verstappen of Red Bull Racing and Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes will start on the front row for the Formula 1 race in Malaysia, marking the first event in the country in nine years. Aston Martin also made headlines during qualifying, achieving a significant result this season.RacingNews365+ 1 moreSat 3 Oct · 08:31 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton's $2.2million watch leads incredible F1 grid collection in MalaysiaAt the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, Lewis Hamilton showcased his Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph, valued at $2.2 million, making it the most expensive watch on the Formula 1 grid. The watch features design elements inspired by Ferrari, including hexagonal screws from Ferrari engine covers and buttons shaped like the SF90 supercar's taillights.
Other notable watches include Fernando Alonso's Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph priced at $11,500 and Nico Hulkenberg's Audemars Piguet Royal Oak valued at $250,000. Max Verstappen also sported a customised TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph. While many of these luxury timepieces are sponsored and not owned by the drivers, they highlight the extravagant lifestyle associated with Formula 1.Motorsport.comSat 3 Oct · 08:12 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton reflects on treasured Roscoe and Coco memoryLewis Hamilton shared a heartfelt reflection on a memorable trip he took with his late dogs, Roscoe and Coco, during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that this particular day in the mountains is the one he would most like to relive, highlighting the joy he experienced during their time together.
The sentiment is amplified by the fact that both dogs have since passed away, with Coco dying in June 2020 and Roscoe in September 2025. Hamilton recently paid tribute to Roscoe on the anniversary of his death, expressing his ongoing love and gratitude for the companionship they provided during some of the happiest moments of his life.Motorsport.comSat 3 Oct · 08:04 UTC
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton praises Fernando Alonso's pure talentLewis Hamilton has stated that many current Formula 1 drivers cannot match Fernando Alonso's talent. Hamilton expressed his admiration for Alonso's abilities, highlighting a perceived gap in skill among top competitors.PlanetF1+ 1 moreSat 3 Oct · 07:29 UTC
via f1oversteer.comChristian Horner comments on Ferrari's future prospectsChristian Horner stated that Ferrari's issues cannot be resolved unless John Elkann implements significant changes within the team. He highlighted that the current trajectory suggests Ferrari will not achieve a championship title by 2026.
f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreSat 3 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 Standings at the Bahrain Grand Prix: Crucial for Russell, last chance for Lewis Hamilton?As the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix approaches, Kimi Antonelli holds a commanding lead in the drivers' standings with 302 points, followed by George Russell at 236 points. Russell's recent win in Azerbaijan has reignited his title hopes, but he faces significant pressure to perform in Bahrain to close the gap on his teammate.
Lewis Hamilton, currently in third place with 199 points, is in a precarious position as he is 103 points behind Antonelli. The Constructors' Championship sees Mercedes firmly in front with 538 points, significantly ahead of Ferrari, which has 378 points. The upcoming race is crucial for both Russell and Hamilton as they seek to improve their standings.
gpfans.comSat 3 Oct · 03:30 UTC
via f1chronicle.comHamilton supports Vasseur but calls for Ferrari changesLewis Hamilton has defended Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur while urging the Scuderia to implement significant changes. Vasseur acknowledged that the ongoing scrutiny around his position has become a major issue for the team.
f1chronicle.com+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 22:23 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton's custom Monza outfit revealed after iconic Ferrari F40 photoshootLewis Hamilton's outfit from his arrival at the Italian Grand Prix has been revealed, showcasing a custom Khaite ensemble. He made a striking entrance in a restored Ferrari F40, wearing a black suit with a tan overcoat, complemented by a black beret and boots.
Hamilton expressed his excitement about acquiring the F40, a car he has dreamed of owning since childhood. He shared that he had previously sold his car collection and was thrilled to restore the F40, which had been sitting in a garage for over thirty years, with the help of Ferrari's engineers.Motorsport.comFri 2 Oct · 21:45 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton warned over Ferrari mirror woe as mistake sparks track change - RacingNews365 ReviewLewis Hamilton received a warning from the Bahrain Grand Prix stewards after he impeded Gabriel Bortoleto during the second practice session at the Sepang International Circuit. This incident has raised concerns about Hamilton's performance as the team prepares for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
Additionally, the FIA had to make a last-minute adjustment to the starting grid due to a mistake where the pole position was incorrectly marked on the track. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen opted for an unconventional strategy during practice to prepare for potential rain, indicating a proactive approach by Red Bull in the face of changing conditions.RacingNews365Fri 2 Oct · 20:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton seeking Ferrari 'compromise' after tricky F1 discoveryLewis Hamilton is looking for the right balance in his Ferrari after a challenging return to the Sepang circuit for the Bahrain Grand Prix. He finished fifth in the second practice session, trailing team-mate Charles Leclerc, who was 0.305 seconds faster, and faced difficulties with the track's abrasive surface affecting grip and tyre management.
Hamilton noted that the day was overall challenging, with limited grip available on track. He mentioned that the team explored various set-up directions and is now focused on analysing data to find the best compromise ahead of qualifying. Despite the struggles, Hamilton believes they are not far off the pace and acknowledges that there is still work to be done.RacingNews365Fri 2 Oct · 17:20 UTC
via Motorsport.comF1 Bahrain GP in Malaysia: Sunday schedule, weather forecast and how to watchMax Verstappen achieved pole position for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, dominating the qualifying sessions. His final lap placed him ahead of Lewis Hamilton, who will start second. Isack Hadjar initially qualified third but will face a five-place grid penalty, promoting Andrea Kimi Antonelli to third on the grid.
The race is set for October 4, 2026, at 3:00 PM MYT, with weather conditions expected to be hot and humid, along with the possibility of thunderstorms. Sky Sports will broadcast the event in the UK, while Apple TV will offer free streaming in the United States. The Sepang circuit's challenging surface and weather conditions will require teams to strategise effectively.Motorsport.comFri 2 Oct · 17:13 UTC
via RacingNews365FIA alters Sepang track after driver safety concernsThe FIA has made significant changes to the Sepang International Circuit following safety concerns raised by Formula 1 drivers during practice sessions. Charles Leclerc and others highlighted issues with the track's degrading surface, prompting the adjustments.RacingNews365+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 16:40 UTC
via f1technical.netFerrari expect rivals to "up their game" for Saturday after strong Sepang practice dayFerrari enjoyed a productive opening day of running at the Bahrain Grand Prix, with Charles Leclerc topping FP2 while Lewis Hamilton finished fifth as the field began to close up at the front.
f1technical.netFri 2 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFerrari add ‘striking’ secret upgrade to Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s SF-26 at SepangFerrari had a strong start to the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix weekend in Malaysia, with Charles Leclerc leading the second practice session. Leclerc's lap time of 1:37.528 placed him ahead of his teammate Lewis Hamilton, who finished fifth. The team introduced minor upgrades, including vortex generators on the SF-26, to improve aerodynamics and downforce.
The Bahrain Grand Prix is being held in Malaysia due to the situation in the Middle East, marking a return of the Sepang circuit to the Formula 1 calendar after a hiatus since 2017. Ferrari is expected to roll out more significant upgrades at the upcoming United States Grand Prix, as they prepare for the remainder of the season.f1oversteer.comFri 2 Oct · 13:00 UTC
via RaceFansHamilton warned and Ferrari fined for practice incidentLewis Hamilton received a formal warning from the FIA stewards for unnecessarily impeding Gabriel Bortoleto during second practice at Sepang. Ferrari was also fined €10,000, approximately $11,250, for their involvement in the incident.RaceFans+ 2 moreFri 2 Oct · 12:37 UTC
via f1oversteer.comDavid Coulthard clarifies ‘slamming’ Charles Leclerc’s family ‘picnic’ by admitting his real concernDavid Coulthard recently faced backlash for his comments regarding Charles Leclerc's focus during race weekends, suggesting that having his family present was akin to treating the event like a picnic. Coulthard expressed concern that such distractions could hinder Leclerc's performance as a driver, given the serious nature of Formula One racing.
In response to the criticism, Coulthard clarified his statements on the Up To Speed podcast, explaining that he did not intend to slam Leclerc but rather to highlight the importance of full concentration in the sport. He compared the situation to a surgeon needing complete focus during a procedure, indicating that distractions could impact performance.f1oversteer.comFri 2 Oct · 12:00 UTC