F1 claims ‘unprecedented’ circumstances for chaotic start in Malaysia

Max Verstappen claimed victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking his first win of the season and his first pole position in nearly a year after returning to the Sepang International Circuit. However, the race started under controversial circumstances. After being delayed twice due to rain and a software issue, the race stewards conducted exploratory formation laps, but Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton reported acceleration difficulties.

Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord revealed that the issue stemmed from a software problem affecting all teams. Following the second delay, the race began, with Verstappen crossing the finish line first. Verstappen criticized the software issue, likening the race to a "LEGO race." Hamilton and other drivers questioned the decision to allow stopped cars to restart, with Fernando Alonso specifically remarking that it was the first time he had seen such a scenario.

The FIA subsequently announced a full review of the incident, highlighting a rare combination of factors like low engine speed, wet conditions, and circuit layout that contributed to the power loss.