Why was F1 Bahrain GP 2026 at Sepang delayed? Real reason behind the time change
(Courtesy : F1)
Heavy thunderstorms have delayed the Bahrain GP 2026 in Malaysia.
The start of Formula 1’s Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia at the Sepang International Circuit has been delayed after a powerful thunderstorm swept across the circuit.
Light drizzle quickly intensified into a tropical storm, with heavy rain and lightning striking the track and halting the pre-race procedures. The downpour forced FIA race control to postpone the start while officials wait for conditions to improve.
During a reconnaissance lap, the FIA safety car reported extensive standing water across the circuit, with conditions considered too dangerous for racing to begin.
However, the FIA’s official weather forecast suggested that conditions could improve once the storm passes over Sepang, with relatively dry weather expected for the remainder of the afternoon.
Carnage during formation lap
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The formation lap began behind the safety car after a while at 15:40 local time (40 minutes after the original start time); however, drivers struggled with traction, with the pole sitter Max Verstappen complaining about the grip, while his teammate went off the track due to aquaplaning.
Lewis Hamilton, who secured P2 in qualifying, struggled with software issues, while Liam Lawson struggled to get started during the formation lap. Other drivers also faced issues, and the FIA decided to suspend the race procedure.
That said, with the temperature around 32°C, the track is drying out fast, and it won’t be long until the race is resumed. According to the FIA, the original grid order will be retained to start this race. The race now starts at 16:33 PM local time.
Why was the Bahrain Grand Prix start delayed?
The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia was delayed because heavy rain and thunderstorms caused significant standing water at the Sepang International Circuit.
Where is the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix being held?
Although it is officially the Bahrain Grand Prix, the 2026 race is being held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. The event was moved from Bahrain after the original race was postponed due to the conflict in the region.
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