F1 returns to Malaysia as Mercedes team-mates fight for title
Kimi Antonelli takes a 66-point lead over Mercedes team-mate George Russell into Formula One's return to Sepang this weekend, the sport's first race in Malaysia since 2017.
The event runs from 2-4 October at the Sepang International Circuit. It is Round 16 of the 2026 season and acts as a one-off replacement for the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was cancelled earlier this year because of the war in the Middle East, The Guardian. It keeps Bahrain branding, backed by Bahraini sponsors, with a Bahrain trophy and Bahraini-themed activities.
Antonelli leads the drivers' standings on 302 points. Russell is second on 236, per official timing. Eight rounds remain.
The gap was bigger. In Baku last time out, Antonelli finished fifth after a costly error in qualifying, the single-lap session that sets the starting grid. It cost him 15 points to Russell in one weekend.
Mercedes will let them race. The team said both drivers have equal opportunity to fight for the title. Boss Toto Wolff added that the team comes first, describing that as always the Mercedes philosophy.
Both cars get help here. Mercedes has brought only its second major upgrade of the year to Sepang. The package includes changes to the floor, the rear suspension and the rear bodywork, parts aimed at adding downforce, the grip that pushes the car into the track through fast corners.
Antonelli is 20 years old and in only his second season in Formula One. He won four races in a row early this year, the fourth in Canada after Russell retired, and led by 43 points after five rounds, Reuters. Behind the Mercedes pair, Lewis Hamilton is third for Ferrari on 199 points, ahead of McLaren's Lando Norris and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.
Sepang will test them. The circuit is known for its rough, abrasive surface and heat. Antonelli called it a perfect proving ground for the 2026 cars. Russell said it was a really cool experience to get out on track for the first time at the circuit, according to the team.
What makes this stand out is the rarity. Team-mates fighting for the title with no clear No. 1 is unusual. And they must do it on a track most of the grid has never raced on. Short. Fast. Unforgiving if you get the tyres wrong.
