Verstappen Fastest in First Practice as F1 Returns to Sepang for Bahrain Grand Prix

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen set the fastest time in first practice as Formula 1 returned to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia for the first time in nine years, hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix at the venue.

The session marked a notable change of scenery for the championship, with the race traditionally held in Bahrain instead taking place at Sepang, a circuit long associated with the Malaysian Grand Prix before that event dropped off the F1 calendar.

Sepang previously hosted Formula 1 races for nearly two decades and is known for its demanding layout, tropical heat and the kind of long straights and technical corners that have historically produced close racing.

Verstappen, a multiple world champion, has been among the sport's most successful drivers in recent seasons, and a strong showing in first practice often signals a competitive package heading into qualifying and the race itself.

Further practice sessions and qualifying are expected to follow before the race, though specific timesheets beyond Verstappen's pace were not detailed in the available report.