Max Verstappen took his first victory of the 2026 season at a chaotic, rain-affected Bahrain Grand Prix, with Kimi Antonelli second and George Russell retiring late.
Key facts
- Max Verstappen won his first race of the 2026 F1 season.
- The Bahrain Grand Prix was held in Malaysia and was twice delayed by rain.
- Kimi Antonelli finished second, strengthening his title bid.
- George Russell retired late in the race.
Max Verstappen claimed his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season by overcoming a chaotic and rain-affected Bahrain Grand Prix, according to Sky Sports.
The race, held in Malaysia, was described by Sky Sports as “absolutely wild” and was twice delayed due to rain, creating difficult and unpredictable conditions for the drivers throughout.
Verstappen navigated the turbulent conditions to take the win, marking a significant moment in his campaign after not having won earlier in the 2026 season.
Kimi Antonelli finished in second place, a result that Sky Sports reported strengthened his title bid as the championship battle continues.
George Russell was forced to retire late in the race, ending his run in the challenging grand prix.
The combination of repeated delays and wet-weather running made for one of the more dramatic races of the season, with Verstappen ultimately emerging on top.
Why it matters
Verstappen's first win of 2026 reshapes the narrative of the season and keeps the championship picture competitive. With Antonelli building his title bid and Russell suffering a late retirement, the result could have lasting implications for the standings.