Verstappen wins F1 Bahrain GP in Malaysia, Antonelli extends title lead

Sepang (Malaysia), Oct 5 (UNI) Max Verstappen claimed his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season in a rain-hit Bahrain Grand Prix at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit, while championship leader Kimi Antonelli took a major step toward his maiden world title after Mercedes teammate George Russell retired late in the race. Verstappen, who started from pole position, recovered from a poor start to finish 2.3 seconds ahead of Antonelli, securing Red Bull's first victory with its own power unit on Sunday. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton completed the podium after a remarkable recovery from a disastrous early tyre gamble. The race,…