Sport : Mercedes Favourite To Dominate Bahrain GP In Malaysia 2026 - Alex Yoong

Former F1 driver Alex Yoong predicts Mercedes-AMG Petronas to dominate the upcoming Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia. Yoong, who raced for Minardi in 2001-2002, believes the Silver Arrows' recent upgrade package has given them an edge over their competitors. However, he was hesitant to single out either teammate George Russell or Kimi Antonelli as the race favorite.

Mercedes, currently leading the constructors' standings with 538 points, will bring its latest upgrade to the Bahrain GP, aiming to strengthen its performance against rivals. The Dutch driver Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, is seen as a potential threat and a "dark horse" for the win. The return of F1 racing to Malaysia after a nine-year hiatus is expected to create an exciting and unpredictable race, with factors such as rain, high tyre wear, and drivers' lack of recent experience at the circuit adding to the uncertainty.