The FIA explains why a software bug on formation laps escaped detection before surfacing during Sepang’s wet safety-car running, where several cars slowed dramatically and some stopped.

The problem first appears during the Bahrain Grand Prix formation lap, then re-emerges at the Sepang International Circuit in rain, most visibly on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull at Turn 9.

Wet-weather mode reduces power from 350kW to 250kW in defined zones. Trundling behind the safety car at unusually low speeds triggers a calibration bug, starving acceleration on several power units.

FIA single-seater chief Nikolas Tombazis says a rare confluence exposed the flaw. The cars ran slower than any validation scenario, well below software thresholds used in development.

Limited wet running across 2026 compounds it. Most events happen in stable conditions, restricting real-world checks of these maps despite controlled outings at Suzuka and Fiorano.

When multiple cars falter, race control shows the red flag. The field returns to the pits while FIA technicians roll out a unified software patch across all 22 entries.

The restart proceeds cleanly. Subsequent briefings detail the grid fix and confirm the patch as a permanent measure pending longer-term validation in future wet simulations.

Tombazis cautions that complex hybrid control systems inevitably carry defects. Rigorous post‑race reviews continue, but he expects this specific interaction not to recur.

Safety and competitive integrity remain central as electrical deployment is constrained. Teams adjust calibration windows, while lessons inform the FIA’s Bahrain GP response and expanded wet‑weather test matrices.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.