Verstappen fastest in opening Bahrain GP practice in Malaysia
Max Verstappen set the pace in the first practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. George Russell was second, with Isack Hadjar completing the top three as Formula 1 returned to Sepang for the first time since 2017.
Max Verstappen was quickest in Free Practice 1 for the 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, topping the session with a lap of 1:37.520. The Red Bull driver finished 0.383s ahead of Mercedes' George Russell, while teammate Isack Hadjar placed third.
The session marked Formula 1's return to the Sepang International Circuit for the first time since 2017. Running at the 5.5 km track took place in hot and humid conditions as teams and drivers got reacquainted with the circuit.
Multiple outlets reported Verstappen leading the opening practice, with Russell and Hadjar following in the top three.
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