Heavy Rain Casts Doubt on Bahrain Grand Prix Start in Malaysia

The Bahrain Grand Prix, relocated to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia for the 2026 season, faces significant uncertainty just hours before its scheduled start due to a heavy downpour. Persistent rain has saturated the track, leading to the formation of puddles and raising questions about the conditions drivers will encounter when the race begins.

Drivers completed reconnaissance laps on intermediate tires, but the relentless rain has complicated preparations. This unpredictable weather adds another layer of challenge to a race already impacted by the relocation from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia due to Middle East conflict. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that the season's final races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will proceed as planned.