F1 claims ‘unprecedented’ circumstances for chaotic start in Malaysia

Formula 1 returned to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia after a seven-year absence, marking a memorable comeback for Max Verstappen. Verstappen secured pole position for the Bahrain Grand Prix, his first since 2017, and claimed his maiden victory of the season. However, the race start presented an unusual spectacle due to several hiccups.

Heavy rain initially caused a 40-minute delay, followed by a 33-minute pause after a failed start under wet conditions. Race stewards initiated exploratory formation laps, but Verstappen's Red Bull struggled to accelerate during the first speed-controlled lap, causing Lewis Hamilton to fall further down the grid. Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord attributed the issue to a potential software problem that affected the grid.

After some software updates, the race resumed, with Verstappen emerging victorious. Verstappen characterized the start as chaotic, likening it to a "Lego race." Hamilton, who had to pit and restart his engine, hoped for a lesson learned. Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso questioned the decision to allow stopped cars to restart. Following the race, the FIA acknowledged the "unprecedented combination" of factors that led to the power loss and announced a full review of the incident.