Storms forecast for F1 qualifying as Verstappen eyes wet-weather test

Qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia is set for Saturday amid storm forecasts, potentially providing Max Verstappen a chance to demonstrate his wet-weather skills in a 2026 car. The latest forecasts predict thunderstorms earlier in the day, although the afternoon may see drier conditions. Friday's session remained dry, with Verstappen clocking the fastest lap in FP1 at 1:37.520. Red Bull and Ferrari have more experience running the new cars in wet conditions compared to other teams. Pirelli officials noted the possibility of tire issues in rapidly changing weather, complicating the qualifying strategy.

• 3:30 AMYahoo Sports — Sepang storm threat could hand Verstappen an edge in F1's first wet qualifying of 2026