Software glitch at Sepang prompts scrutiny of F1 procedures
Formula 1 came under heavy criticism after a software glitch disrupted the formation lap of the Malaysia-hosted Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang. Multiple drivers lost power and some cars slowed dramatically or stopped, leading to wider questions about procedures, penalties and the sport’s systems.
Several outlets reported that a software bug triggered disruption on the formation lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix held in Malaysia at Sepang. During the incident, confusion spread as drivers including Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris lost power, while a number of cars slowed to a crawl or came to a halt.
The episode prompted strong criticism from across the paddock and media. Carlos Sainz said Formula 1 needed to "have a hard look at" itself, while other coverage described the situation as unacceptable and said F1 was fortunate the chaos was not worse.
The fallout also extended beyond the immediate glitch. Reports said the event renewed criticism of Formula 1's 2026 engine regulations and sparked debate over whether the affected cars should have been penalised, as well as broader questions about how the series handled the event.