Here is what the page “Verstappen ends pole wait at Bahrain GP in Malaysia but Russell risks losing more ground” contains. Max Verstappen secured his first pole position of the 2026 Formula One season at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, delivering a commanding performance for Red Bull. The Dutchman was untouchable in Sepang, ending a long wait for the top spot. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton will start alongside him on the front row in second place, with Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli in fourth.
However, the biggest story may be George Russell's struggles: the Mercedes driver could only manage eighth, putting him at risk of losing further points to his teammate Antonelli in the world championship fight. With Antonelli currently leading the standings, Russell's deficit could grow after the race, making his title pursuit even more difficult. The contrast between the Mercedes teammates was stark, and Russell now faces an uphill battle to close the gap. For the complete material, the listing points back to the source inside the network.