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Max Verstappen secures first pole position of the season in Malaysia

Max Verstappen has claimed pole position in Malaysia for the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking his first of the season.

4 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Max Verstappen secures first pole position of the season in Malaysia — Archive photoPhoto: Max Verstappen · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Max Verstappen achieved his first pole position of the Formula 1 season at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. This took place during the qualifying session for the Bahrain Grand Prix, which will be held this weekend in Malaysia.

Verstappen, driving his Red Bull car, showcased strong speed and finished the qualifying with the fastest time. Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes will start alongside him on the front row. Isack Hadjar, Verstappen's teammate, qualified third, but due to a grid penalty, he will start the race in eighth position, resulting in shifts in the starting lineup.

Kimi Antonelli, the current leader in the World Championship, benefited from this penalty and will start in third place. Charles Leclerc from Ferrari, who set the fastest time in an earlier practice session, qualified fourth, less than a tenth of a second behind Hadjar.

Max Verstappen secures first pole position of the season in Malaysia — Photo: Liauzh · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

The challenges and dynamics in the team strategy game are expected to play a significant role in the race. Verstappen's performance in Malaysia is considered indicative of his chances for success this season, especially following his strong finish in qualifying.

The race itself is scheduled for Sunday at 09:00 CET. The excitement for both drivers and fans is high, given the possibilities that may unfold as the race progresses. Fans will undoubtedly be curious about the strategies teams will employ, considering the unique conditions at the Sepang circuit.

This is not only an important phase of the season but also presents new opportunities for all drivers. Verstappen's pole position victory could mark the beginning of a promising streak of performances as the season continues.

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