Helmut MarkoMax VerstappenRalf Schumacher 
via CrashWill Buxton makes huge Max Verstappen declarationMax Verstappen secured his first victory of the 2026 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking his 72nd career win in Formula 1. This achievement ties him with Michael Schumacher for second place in all-time Grand Prix victories, with only Lewis Hamilton ahead. The race took place at the Sepang International Circuit, and Verstappen's win is particularly notable as it was the first for Red Bull Powertrains.
Following the race, journalist Will Buxton praised Verstappen, asserting that he is now among the all-time greats in Formula 1. Buxton argued that Verstappen's accomplishments warrant his inclusion on the Mount Rushmore of the sport's greatest drivers, emphasizing the significance of his victories with a single team, Red Bull, in comparison to Schumacher's wins with Ferrari.
CrashTue 6 Oct · 10:45 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull's resurgence linked to Laurent Mekies' influenceRed Bull Racing's recent success in Formula 1 is attributed to the impact of Laurent Mekies, who has played a significant role since taking over after Christian Horner. The team's victory in Malaysia marks a notable turnaround, showcasing improvements in both chassis performance and powertrain focus.
RacingNews365+ 2 moreTue 6 Oct · 09:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comHelmut Marko disputes Christian Horner's Verstappen claimsHelmut Marko has rejected Christian Horner's assertions regarding Max Verstappen's early career at Red Bull Racing, labelling them as inaccurate. Marko's comments come ahead of the release of Horner's autobiography, which has reignited discussions about the team's internal dynamics.
f1oversteer.com+ 5 moreTue 6 Oct · 09:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen backs IndyCar-style overtaking system for Formula 1Max Verstappen has expressed his desire for Formula 1 to revert to naturally aspirated V8 engines, arguing that they would address current issues related to car weight and drivability. During a podcast appearance, he stated that the return of V8s would not only bring back the thrilling sound of racing but also improve the overall racing experience.
In addition to advocating for V8 engines, Verstappen proposed eliminating the Drag Reduction System (DRS) in favour of an IndyCar-style 'push to pass' feature. He believes this would give drivers more control during overtaking, allowing for more strategic and exciting racing. Verstappen's vision aligns with F1's future plans to reintroduce V8 engines by 2030.
Motorsport.comTue 6 Oct · 08:46 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli’s unaired radio reveals Mercedes stopped him from fighting Max Verstappen in MalaysiaKimi Antonelli disclosed that Mercedes prevented him from competing against Max Verstappen during the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he finished second. Verstappen secured a historic victory after overcoming Antonelli, who initially led the race before losing his position.
Mercedes' focus was on the championship, leading to instructions for Antonelli to prioritize his battle with Ferrari drivers rather than Verstappen. Despite his dissatisfaction, Antonelli was reminded by race engineer Peter Bonnington that they were not in a position to risk a fight with Verstappen, especially with teammate George Russell out of the race.f1oversteer.comTue 6 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell to serve grid penalties at Singapore GPGeorge Russell has confirmed he will face two grid penalties due to engine issues, with the first set to take effect at the Singapore Grand Prix. The penalties follow his retirement from the Bahrain Grand Prix caused by a power unit failure.RacingNews365+ 3 moreTue 6 Oct · 06:10 UTC
via gpfans.comRUMOURZak Brown drops major hint over early McLaren arrival for Max Verstappen allyZak Brown, the CEO of McLaren, has suggested that Gianpiero Lambiase may join the team earlier than initially planned, potentially in 2027. Lambiase, who is currently the race engineer for Max Verstappen at Red Bull, was previously expected to move to McLaren no later than 2028. The speculation around an earlier move intensified after Lambiase was seen conversing with Brown at the Spanish Grand Prix.
Brown's comments during the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend indicated that McLaren is making every effort to secure Lambiase's services sooner. This comes as Red Bull has already appointed replacements for Lambiase's roles, with Tom Hart and Tom McCullough stepping in for 2027. McLaren is looking forward to the future, having recently enjoyed success in the Constructors' Championships.
gpfans.comTue 6 Oct · 06:05 UTC
via grandprix.comMekies surprised by Red Bull's return to winning formRed Bull team boss Laurent Mekies expressed surprise at Max Verstappen's recent resurgence in performance, attributing it to ongoing development in both the chassis and engine programmes. He acknowledged the late Dietrich Mateschitz's influence on the team's progress.newsonf1.com+ 1 moreTue 6 Oct · 05:48 UTC
via Motorsport.comHelmut Marko claims V8 engine return is a done dealHelmut Marko has stated that the planned return of V8 engines to Formula 1 in 2030 is already confirmed, following recent technical issues at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Sepang. The Red Bull Racing advisor's comments suggest a shift in the sport's engine regulations is imminent.newsonf1.com+ 4 moreTue 6 Oct · 05:47 UTC
via RacingNews365Verstappen matches Schumacher as F1 drivers vent concern - RacingNews365 ReviewMax Verstappen secured his first victory of the season at the Bahrain Grand Prix, overcoming challenges such as a rain delay and an early power loss. This win ties him with Michael Schumacher for second place in all-time grand prix wins with the same team, Red Bull Racing.
The race saw Verstappen start behind the Mercedes cars but he managed to reclaim the lead, showcasing his driving skills. This achievement has sparked discussions among Formula 1 drivers, who have expressed concerns regarding the competitive landscape of the sport.RacingNews365Mon 5 Oct · 20:00 UTC
via Formula1.comMax Verstappen wins 2026 Malaysian Grand PrixMax Verstappen secured his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Malaysian Grand Prix, overcoming challenging weather conditions. The race, which featured a mix of wet and dry conditions, saw Verstappen fend off strong competition from Mercedes.
Formula1.comMon 5 Oct · 18:12 UTC
via RacingNews365Liam Lawson praises Racing Bulls' strategy in BahrainLiam Lawson commended Racing Bulls for their strategic decisions during the Bahrain Grand Prix, which led to his impressive P7 finish. The driver acknowledged initial doubts about the team's calls but ultimately celebrated the outcome as a significant achievement.RacingNews365+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekMax Verstappen laughs at Bahrain Grand Prix chaosMax Verstappen was heard laughing during a team radio exchange with GianPiero Lambiase, reacting to the unusual situation at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Multiple Formula 1 cars experienced issues that caused them to stop on track during the formation lap.
Motorsport Week+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 17:16 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer blown away by one 'sublime' Oscar Piastri moment during Bahrain Grand PrixDuring the Bahrain Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri showcased impressive racecraft, finishing in sixth place despite starting on dry tyres. His standout moment came during a safety car restart when he executed a brilliant overtake on Liam Lawson, which caught the attention of commentator Jolyon Palmer, who described the move as 'sublime'.
Despite his personal success, Piastri expressed disappointment with McLaren's overall performance, indicating that the team's recent upgrades have not yielded the expected improvements. He acknowledged the need for the team to enhance their pace, as both he and teammate Lando Norris have struggled to compete for race wins this season.f1oversteer.comMon 5 Oct · 17:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli learns from Hamilton and VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the current Formula 1 championship leader, has shared insights on the valuable lessons he is gaining from racing alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The Mercedes driver believes that this experience is crucial in shaping his development as a competitor in the sport.Motorsport.com+ 2 moreMon 5 Oct · 16:55 UTC
via RacingNews365Will Max Verstappen beat Michael Schumacher's grand prix victory tally?Max Verstappen has achieved 72 grand prix victories, bringing him closer to Michael Schumacher's record of 91 wins. At just 28 years old, Verstappen's win count significantly surpasses Schumacher's at the same age, largely due to the increased number of races in modern Formula 1 seasons and Verstappen's earlier debut.
However, when comparing their win percentages across similar race starts, Schumacher's record remains superior. Verstappen's contract with Red Bull extends until 2030, providing him with the opportunity to chase Schumacher's tally, contingent on Red Bull's ability to deliver competitive cars in the coming seasons.RacingNews365Mon 5 Oct · 16:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLando Norris nearly crashes into Oscar Piastri in BahrainLando Norris came close to colliding with his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri during the Bahrain Grand Prix, which took place under safety car conditions. This incident followed Norris's recent public feud with Franco Colapinto at the previous race in Baku.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 15:00 UTC
via RacingNews365F1 faces embarrassment over Verstappen predictionThe Formula 1 community expressed embarrassment following a bold prediction made about Max Verstappen. This discussion arose during a recent episode of the RacingNews365 Podcast, reflecting on the implications for the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix.RacingNews365Mon 5 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Verstappen shines while Russell faces challenges in BahrainMax Verstappen was highlighted as a winner at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking a significant achievement in his season. In contrast, George Russell was noted for experiencing difficulties during the race, contributing to a mixed outcome for him.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 13:26 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen wins in Malaysia with Red Bull upgradesMax Verstappen secured victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix, showcasing the performance of his upgraded Red Bull car. Former Renault driver Jolyon Palmer noted that Verstappen's recent form indicates he has the machinery to match his driving skills.PlanetF1+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 13:16 UTC
via RaceFansDrivers report power loss during Sepang formation lapMax Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris experienced significant power loss during the formation lap at the Sepang circuit. The incident caused confusion among the drivers as they struggled to understand the sudden lack of power.
RaceFansMon 5 Oct · 11:05 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMcLaren struggles with performance at SepangThe McLaren Formula 1 team is investigating the reasons behind its disappointing performance at the Sepang circuit, which was expected to suit the MCL40. Ralf Schumacher has expressed concerns, stating that McLaren faces a 'huge problem' after scoring only 10 points in the last two races since introducing an updated car package.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 11:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Zak Brown aims for Gianpiero Lambiase's early arrivalMcLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown expressed hope that Gianpiero Lambiase, currently with Red Bull, could join the team in 2027 instead of the previously announced 2028. This update comes amid concerns regarding McLaren's recent performance and potential upgrades.RacingNews365+ 5 moreMon 5 Oct · 08:40 UTC
via Formula1.comHow Red Bull cured weaknesses to give Verstappen his first 2026 victoryMax Verstappen secured his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. This win was facilitated by Red Bull Racing's significant upgrades to the RB22, which were introduced about ten days prior to the race in Baku.
Despite a disappointing qualifying session where Verstappen started in eighth place due to engine troubles and yellow flags, the team's upgrades proved effective during the race. The enhancements included a new floor body, diffuser, sidepods, cooling louvres, mirrors, and a halo fairing, which collectively contributed to Verstappen's comfortable win.Formula1.comMon 5 Oct · 08:18 UTC