FIA ikrar siasat kekecohan permulaan GP Bahrain

FIA has vowed to investigate the controversial start to the Bahrain Grand Prix after heavy rain forced the race at the International Circuit in Sepang to be delayed by over 90 minutes. (Photo: Bernama) In Sepang, the FIA's governing body announced a comprehensive investigation into the postponed Grand Prix, following issues with several teams' equipment.

Lewis Hamilton described the race as a "Lego Grand Prix" after many teams faced technical problems, including Max Verstappen winning his first victory of the season. Kimi Antolin finished second, while Hamilton secured his comeback to the podium after starting 18th. George Russell, who led the race from the third position, had to end his race early due to an engine issue, potentially ending his hopes of a world championship.

Despite the chaotic start, the race was delayed once more due to issues with the new generation of tires, which had received harsh criticism. The race began with a penalty for Verstappen, who had initially stalled his car. Hamilton also faced difficulties with his Ferrari and had to stop and restart his engine. Verstappen, who had previously threatened to leave the sport due to his dislike of the new regulations, eventually managed to increase his speed and was seen laughing at the sight of several stalled cars on the side of the track.

All cars returned to the pit lane in slow motion, with 53 minutes passing before the race officials gave the green light to start the race again. The lengthy delay was not explained at the time, but later it was discovered that the new equipment needed to be downloaded to the cars. Two laps were conducted behind the safety car before the race started from the first position.

Verstappen received the lap winner's flag, finishing 2.3 seconds ahead of Antolin. The FIA explained that the complex engine, with many parts and systems, experienced a loss of power due to the unique combination of low engine speed, low tire pressure, and management of energy during the wet weather and SIC track configuration. The Technical Department revoked the power limit in the critical sector using updated software, allowing teams to make necessary adjustments to their power units before the race began.

The FIA stated in their statement that this issue was not known to either the FIA or the teams during testing or practice before the race. The failure to finish the race meant Hamilton now trails his teammate by 84 points, with only seven races remaining and a maximum of 183 points possible. The day was described as anything but a typical F1 race, with delays and red flags throughout.