Max Verstappen and Red Bull celebrated their first triumph of the 2026 season at a tricky, rain-delayed Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia on October 4. Despite initially losing the lead after starting on pole, Verstappen skillfully maneuvered past Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell during the chaotic race. After a safety car period and some tire strategy exchanges, Verstappen regained and maintained the lead to cross the finish line more than two seconds ahead of Antonelli. This marked Verstappen’s first win since last season’s Abu Dhabi finale and the 72nd of his F1 career, while also delivering Red Bull its inaugural victory using its own power unit.

The event, which started 93 minutes late due to dangerous weather and technical issues on the formation lap, saw multiple incidents including a spin by Valtteri Bottas and a power unit failure for Russell near the race’s conclusion. Russell’s retirement while holding third place dealt a significant setback to his championship aspirations. Lewis Hamilton capitalized on Ferrari’s early tire gamble going wrong to climb from 18th starting position and capture the final podium spot. Other notable finishes included Oscar Piastri in sixth for McLaren and Fernando Alonso adding points for Aston Martin with eighth.

Following this race, Andrea Kimi Antonelli strengthened his lead in the drivers’ championship with 320 points, while Russell, hampered by his retirement, remained second with 236 points, extending his gap from Antonelli by 20 points to 86. Hamilton holds third place at 214 points, with teammate Charles Leclerc fourth on 191 points. Lando Norris and Verstappen are tied on 188 points each, showing the tight midfield battles shaping up as the season approaches its final rounds.

In the constructors’ standings, Mercedes continues to lead comfortably with 556 points, followed by Ferrari with 405. McLaren holds third with 316, while Red Bull's 298 points reflect their resurgence following Verstappen’s victory. The season progresses to its 17th round at the Singapore Grand Prix scheduled for October 9-11, with championship battles in both categories intensifying as the title contenders sharpen their focus.