Max Verstappen wins chaotic Malaysia race as George Russell retires late

Max Verstappen claimed victory in a rain-delayed Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia on October 4, 2026, overcoming significant challenges due to wet conditions. The race experienced a lengthy delay of over an hour before starting, with technical issues affecting multiple cars at the start. Verstappen managed to take the lead from Kimi Antonelli after an early safety car period, eventually finishing 2.3 seconds ahead. George Russell, who had been running in third, faced a late engine failure with just five laps remaining, severely impacting his championship aspirations as he dropped 84 points behind the leader. This race marked a significant moment in the season, highlighting ongoing issues with the new cars in wet conditions.

• 12:59 PMYahoo Sports — George Russell hit with crushing late DNF as Max Verstappen wins chaotic Malaysia race