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FIA explains software glitch that caused Bahrain GP in Malaysia race delay
FIA said a software glitch in the new hybrid power unit system stopped several cars on the formation lap and forced an updated release to teams.
- On Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia faced a chaotic start when torrential rain and software glitches caused multiple cars to stall on the formation lap, forcing race organizers to suspend the start procedure.
- FIA Technical Department officials, led by Nikolas Tombazis, attributed the failures to an unprecedented combination of low engine speed, wet conditions, and energy management algorithms within the new 2026 hybrid power units featuring 47% electrical power.
- Drivers including Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton reported throttle input failing, causing cars to stop on track. Verstappen radioed, "Lol look at this," while crews scrambled to install a 53-minute emergency software update from Statements 4, 9, 12, 52.
- Verstappen claimed victory after the race resumed in drier conditions, while the FIA confirmed plans to conduct a full review with power unit manufacturers to prevent future technical failures.
- Reigning world champion Lando Norris described the scene as "horrible," arguing the sport "shouldn't have any of that stuff on the electronic side" given the 2026 regulations' complexity; teams now face pressure to improve software reliability in unpredictable conditions.
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Verstappen wants a 'lesson learned' after software issues in
Max Verstappen said he wants “a lesson learned” after Formula 1 drivers and fans were left waiting for software updates because the cars’ algorithms weren’t able to handle a wet track. The first attempt to start Sunday’s
·Baltimore, United States
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Ottumwa Courier+4 Reposted by 4 other sources
Verstappen wants a 'lesson learned' after software issues in F1 cars delay race start
Max Verstappen said he wants “a lesson learned” after Formula 1 drivers and fans were left waiting for software updates because the cars’ algorithms weren’t able to handle a wet track. The first attempt to start Sunday’s Bahrain Grand Prix…
A strange software bug hit a Finn's car.
·Helsinki, Finland
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Electrical problems and strong water have forced to delay an exit marked by absolute chaos at the Sepang circuit
Coverage Details
Total News Sources24
Leaning Left2Leaning Right3Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution64% Center
Bias Distribution
- 64% of the sources are Center
64% Center
14%
C 64%
R 22%
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