The FIA has launched an urgent investigation following a disrupted Bahrain Grand Prix held under unusual conditions in Malaysia, where heavy rain and technical issues caused significant delays and forced several drivers out of the race. The event, originally scheduled as a traditional Formula 1 competition, was marred by software malfunctions linked to the hybrid power units when exposed to wet conditions for the first time.

Max Verstappen secured victory in the race, but the event is expected to be remembered more for its operational failings than the competitive outcomes. Multiple cars suffered breakdowns related to software glitches governing the half-electric, half-combustion engines during the rain-affected portions of the race, leading to a delay of over an hour. Officials had to reboot technical systems before racing could resume.

Lewis Hamilton, who finished third after stopping on the formation lap due to technical issues, described the race as reminiscent of a “Lego race”—a reference to a prior event that was criticized for its artificial and disrupted nature. Hamilton expressed frustration with the spectacle, urging that lessons be learned from the experience.

George Russell retired from a strong third-place position because of engine failure and criticized the conduct of the race. He said the event felt disorganized, noting delays, a red flag period, and extended laps behind the safety car that detracted from the typical Formula 1 experience. Verstappen, the winner, acknowledged the situation was unfavorable for the sport.

The FIA attributed the problems to a combination of factors, including low engine speeds, reduced grip on the wet circuit, wet-weather energy management settings, and the specific layout of the track’s sectors. These conditions collectively contributed to the power units’ inability to function properly under the wet-weather circumstances.

The governing body’s investigation aims to address the vulnerabilities that emerged during the race to prevent similar disruptions in future events, particularly as Formula 1 continues to rely on hybrid technologies that have not previously been tested extensively in rainy environments.