Bahrain Grand Prix 2026: Starting Grid for Sepang Revealed

The Formula 1 circus has rolled into Malaysia for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, bringing the action to the iconic Sepang International Circuit. The starting grid has been officially announced, and it promises a thrilling race with some familiar faces up front. Max Verstappen will lead the pack from pole position, marking his first pole of the season for Red Bull. Joining him on the front row is Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, ensuring that the fight for the lead will be anything but straightforward.

Qualifying saw Red Bull initially secure a one-three, but Isack Hadjar has taken a hit due to a power unit penalty, relegating him to eighth position. This shuffle allows championship leader Kimi Antonelli in his Mercedes to start third, alongside Ferrari's Charles Leclerc on the second row.

McLaren enthusiasts will be pleased to see an all-orange third row, with reigning champion Lando Norris starting fifth, just ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri. Following them, Hadjar will start alongside Mercedes’ George Russell, who claimed victory at the last race. Completing the top ten are Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Audi's Gabriel Bortoleto.

Towards the back of the grid, Alpine's Franco Colapinto and Racing Bulls’ Arvid Lindblad find themselves in less enviable positions. Colapinto's misfortune stems from a five-place penalty for a previous race collision and an additional 10-place drop for new power unit components. Meanwhile, Lindblad faces a daunting 30-place penalty due to his own power unit changes.

The race is set to start at 3:00 PM local time, and fans can tune in for live coverage beginning at 2:00 PM. With a grid full of talent and a few unexpected twists, the Bahrain Grand Prix in Sepang is set to deliver a captivating spectacle.