Max Verstappen Warns Tyre Wear Could Complicate Sepang Victory Bid

Posted : 01 October 2026

Max Verstappen has warned that heavy tyre degradation could make it difficult for Red Bull to turn its recent improvement into a first Formula One victory of the 2026 season at Sepang this weekend.

The four-time world champion arrives in Malaysia after finishing second at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, extending Red Bull's recent run of strong results. However, Verstappen remains without a win this season and is determined to end that wait before the campaign concludes.

"I'm trying everything I can," Verstappen said ahead of the race. "We are scoring quite a few podiums now, but I want to win."

Verstappen has fond memories of Sepang, having won the last Malaysian Grand Prix in 2017. However, he acknowledged that the circuit presents a very different challenge from Baku, where Red Bull's recent upgrades appeared particularly effective.

The 29-year-old highlighted Sepang's abrasive surface, high temperatures and demanding layout as potential obstacles. The circuit is known for placing significant stress on the tyres, while its tropical climate can make conditions physically demanding for drivers.

Formula One is returning to Sepang for the first time since 2017, with the circuit hosting this year's Bahrain Grand Prix after the original Bahrain event was postponed because of the conflict in the Middle East.

Verstappen said Red Bull's progress in Baku needs to be assessed on a different type of circuit before the team can determine how competitive its latest package really is. The upcoming races will also provide valuable information for the development direction of next year's car.

"We're not fighting for the championship, so for us it's a big learning curve," Verstappen said. "Every weekend now, we'll try and do our best and we'll see where that leads us."

Verstappen currently sits sixth in the drivers' championship after 15 rounds, while Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell occupy the top two positions. He has collected seven podium finishes this season but remains in search of his first victory.

Tyre management is expected to be one of the defining factors at Sepang. Formula One's official website noted that the circuit's rough surface could lead to significant degradation, while Mercedes' Antonelli also described the track as particularly demanding on the tyres.

Max Verstappen Warns Tyre Wear Could Complicate Sepang Victory Bid

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