Max Verstappen leads long runs during F1 Bahrain GP practice session
Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 11:49 AM
Last updated Oct 2, 2026

Max Verstappen was the fastest driver in long runs during the second free practice session for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver utilized medium tyres and finished ahead of competitors. George Russell of Mercedes was 0.19 seconds slower, while Ferrari's Charles Leclerc trailed by 0.32 seconds. The session took place on October 2, 2026, as teams prepare for the race weekend in Malaysia.
- •Max Verstappen topped long runs in Bahrain GP practice.
- •George Russell finished second, 0.19 seconds behind.
- •Charles Leclerc was third, 0.32 seconds off the pace.
- •The session occurred on October 2, 2026.
- •Teams are finalizing their strategies ahead of the race.
- 11:49 AMMotorsport.com — F1 Bahrain GP long runs: Max Verstappen the favourite in Malaysia?
- 11:49 AMYahoo Sports — F1 Bahrain GP long runs: Max Verstappen the favourite in Malaysia?
"Max Verstappen emerged as the fastest driver in the long runs during the second free practice session for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver was running on medium tyres and, after adjusting for the different stint lengths and tyre compounds, came out ahead of the competition. George Russell (+0.19s) in the Mercedes and Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc (+0.32s) ...Keep reading
"Verstappen sets the pace in Sepang as tyre wear becomes a big issue
Sources
External links- Motorsport.comOct 2, 2026, 11:49 AMF1 Bahrain GP long runs: Max Verstappen the favourite in Malaysia?
Max Verstappen emerged as the fastest driver in the long runs during the second free practice session for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver was running on medium tyres and, after adjusting for the different stint lengths and tyre compounds, came out ahead of the competition. George Russell (+0.19s) in the Mercedes and Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc (+0.32s) ...Keep reading
- Yahoo SportsOct 2, 2026, 11:49 AMF1 Bahrain GP long runs: Max Verstappen the favourite in Malaysia?
Verstappen sets the pace in Sepang as tyre wear becomes a big issue
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