The start of the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix has been delayed after a severe thunderstorm brought torrential rain and lightning to Sepang just minutes before lights out.

Due to a large volume of water currently on the track, conditions remain unsafe, with the FIA sending the Medical Car out to assess the circuit before racing can begin. As of yet no revised start time has yet been confirmed.

Max Verstappen is due to start from pole alongside Lewis Hamilton on the front row.