Formula One 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia qualifying is live as Mercedes teammates Kimi Antonelli and George Russell battle for pole position at Sepang. After Russell's win in Azerbaijan, the title race is reignited, and all eyes are on the young Antonelli, who topped third practice with a stunning lap of 1:36.302.
Antonelli Leads Final Practice in Malaysia
Kimi Antonelli set the pace in the final practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, posting a time of 1:36.302. The Red Bull pair of Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar followed, with Russell six-tenths adrift. This marked a significant improvement for Mercedes after a challenging Friday where they were 7th and 8th.
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Mercedes' Friday Struggles
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord admitted Friday was tough: "It's probably been one of our toughest Fridays of the season so far." However, the team's resurgence in FP3 suggests they have found a better setup for the Sepang circuit.
Title Race Heats Up Between Mercedes Teammates
With Russell's recent victory in Azerbaijan, the pressure is on Antonelli, who is in only his second F1 season. The prospect of a comeback from Russell could put Mercedes under pressure to manage their drivers, reminiscent of the Hamilton-Rosberg era. The team insists they will allow them to race.
Sepang Conditions Challenge Drivers
Track temperatures are around 32°C with high humidity, making Sepang one of the most physically demanding circuits on the calendar. Both Mercedes drivers are experiencing Sepang for the first time in an F1 car.
Practice Results Comparison
| Driver | Team | FP3 Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 1:36.302 | - |
| Max Verstappen | Red Bull | 1:36.580 | +0.278 |
| Isack Hadjar | Red Bull | 1:36.860 | +0.558 |
| George Russell | Mercedes | 1:36.902 | +0.600 |
Key Takeaways from Qualifying So Far
- Antonelli fastest in FP3, showing Mercedes' improved pace.
- Red Bull close behind with Verstappen and Hadjar.
- Russell six-tenths back but confident for qualifying.
- High temperatures and humidity will test driver fitness.
- Mercedes teammates allowed to race freely, intensifying title battle.
FAQ
What time is qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?
Qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia starts at 15:00 local time (07:00 GMT) on Saturday.
Qualifying will begin at 15:00 local time (07:00 GMT) on Saturday at Sepang International Circuit.
Who was fastest in FP3 for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia?
Kimi Antonelli was fastest in FP3 with a time of 1:36.302.
Kimi Antonelli topped the timesheets in third practice, followed by Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar.
How can I watch the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia qualifying live?
You can watch qualifying live on Sky Sports F1 in the UK, or via F1 TV Pro in other regions.
Live coverage is available on Sky Sports F1 in the UK and F1 TV Pro internationally. Check local listings for details.
Stay tuned for live updates as qualifying unfolds at Sepang.
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