The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has committed to enhancing its software testing protocols following a technical issue that delayed the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix held last weekend at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia. During the event, several Formula 1 cars suffered power losses caused by a software malfunction, resulting in multiple drivers, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, being stranded on the track and requiring restarts on the formation laps.

The problem stemmed from the on-board power unit software's inability to properly manage the engines under wet conditions, marking the first race in 2026 featuring cars powered by a near-equal division between internal combustion engines and electrical output. The FIA's post-race investigation revealed that the vehicles experienced a loss of power exceeding what was anticipated, which could not be immediately rectified during race preparations.

Due to the malfunction, race officials suspended the start and deployed a swift software update before the competition resumed almost an hour later. By that time, the track conditions had improved significantly, and no further software-related incidents were reported during the race.

Looking ahead, the FIA announced that the temporary software update applied at Sepang will be reinstated for the imminent Singapore Grand Prix, where rainy weather is forecast. Furthermore, a more comprehensive update to the wet weather software is planned for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.

The governing body also emphasized ongoing collaboration with teams and engine manufacturers to bolster power unit software validation. This initiative will include independent assessments and a strengthened overall verification process to prevent similar disruptions in future events.