MalaysiaF1 Returns to Malaysia
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem thanks Malaysia for hosting Formula 1 after a nine-year absence, as Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The event was marred by a software bug that caused cars to lose power in wet conditions.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia was delayed by a huge downpour, which caused a software bug to be triggered in several cars, including those of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
The bug, which affects how engines' electrical power can be used in wet conditions, caused many cars to struggle to move, with some coming to a complete stop on the track.
Verstappen, who won the race, described the situation as like a 'Lego race', referring to a show run in battery-powered Lego F1 cars held before the British Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton, who finished third, said he had to stop his car and restart the engine, something he had never done before.
Nikolas Tombazis, the single-seater director for the FIA, said there would be a full investigation into the issue, which arose because the software had not been tested in these specific conditions.
The problem was caused by a combination of low engine speeds, low grip, and specific aspects of the circuit layout.
Frederic Vasseur, the Ferrari team principal, admitted that the team had a 'big issue' with distractions during the race.
The Malaysian government and public were praised by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem for stepping up to host the event.
Key facts
- The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia was delayed by a huge downpour.
- A software bug caused many cars to lose power in wet conditions.
- Max Verstappen won the race, his first victory of the year.
- The FIA will conduct a full investigation into the software issue.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The return of Formula 1 to Malaysia has been welcomed by fans, but the event was marred by technical issues. The FIA will investigate the software bug that caused problems for several cars. The next Formula 1 event will be closely watched to see if similar issues arise.
Positive
The successful hosting of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia is a boost for the country's sporting reputation. Max Verstappen's win was a dominant performance, and the event was well-attended despite the technical issues.
Negative
The software bug that caused cars to lose power in wet conditions has raised concerns about the reliability of Formula 1 technology. The issue has also highlighted the need for more thorough testing of software in different conditions.
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