Heavy rain and thunderstorms delay Formula 1 race at Sepang
The Bahrain Grand Prix listed at Sepang in Malaysia was postponed on October 4, 2026 after torrential rain and lightning made the track unsafe.
Heavy rain and repeated lightning strikes forced organisers to delay the start of the Formula 1 race scheduled at Sepang on October 4, 2026. The event — listed in reports as the Bahrain Grand Prix taking place at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia — remained paused as track and safety teams assessed conditions.
Organisers confirmed the postponement early on October 4, 2026 at 08:58, citing persistent downpours and thunderstorms that left large sections of the circuit flooded and visibility reduced. Teams and drivers remained in the paddock while marshals cleared drains and monitored forecasts.
Weather could hand drivers the season's first wet race
Many memorable Formula 1 races have been run on a wet Sepang, and the current storm raised the possibility that this could become the first wet-surface race of the 2026 season. "Now maybe we'll get the first race on a wet surface in 2026," commentators said as the rain continued.
Teams are watching tyre strategy closely: while earlier rounds this year were held on dry tracks, a switch to intermediate or full-wet tyres would be required if the race restarts under standing water. Engineers were reported checking surface drainage and the timetable for a possible delayed start.
Formula 1's official account shared a short update on the conditions at Sepang: "Here's a taste of the current conditions in Sepang 😵" — Formula 1 (@F1) October 4, 2026.
Race control said it would continue to review weather data and safety reports before announcing a new start time. Spectators were asked to follow official channels for updates as teams prepared for what could be an unpredictable restart.
Photo: press material from the event
