Heavy rain delays Bahrain Grand Prix start at Sepang

FIA Race Control delayed the start of the Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit on October 4 after heavy rain left standing water on the track and the Medical Car’s reconnaissance found conditions unsuitable for racing. The reports establish that the start was delayed, but do not confirm whether the race later began or what its outcome was. Rain intensified as cars assembled on the grid for the pre-race procedure, turning drizzle into a downpour. Reports also described thunder and lightning in the area. With water across the circuit, officials paused the start sequence while conditions were assessed. The Medical Car went around the track and indicated that the surface was not safe for an immediate start. A later update in one report said the rain had eased and track sweepers were clearing standing water. It said the FIA had issued the required 10-minute signal and that a formation lap was set for 3:40 p.m. local time. Race Control’s proposed procedure called for at least two laps behind the Safety Car before the cars returned to their grid positions for a standing start.