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Verstappen Determined to Win at Least One Race This Year as He Targets Malaysia Success Max Verstappen arrived in Malaysia with a clear objective: end his long wait for a victory in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The four-time world champion admitted that simply collecting podium finishes is no longer enough for him. After 15 rounds without a win, Verstappen said he wants to stand on the top step at least once before the season comes to an end. The Red Bull driver had already come close in recent races. He finished second in both Madrid and Baku, with his latest runner-up result coming by less than two tenths of a second behind George Russell in Azerbaijan. Those performances have provided encouragement that Red Bull are moving in the right direction after a difficult start to the campaign. "We are scoring quite a few podiums now, but I want to win," Verstappen said ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. "That's what I'm here for and I'm getting close. I want to at least win one race this year." Red Bull have made progress with their car in recent races, particularly after introducing upgrades in Baku. Verstappen said the new parts had worked well, although he also acknowledged that Baku has traditionally suited the characteristics of his Red Bull. That makes the return to Sepang an important test. The Bahrain Grand Prix is being held at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit after the original Bahrain event was relocated because of the security situation in the Middle East. The move also marks Formula 1's return to Sepang for the first time since 2017. Verstappen has a special connection with the circuit. He won the last Formula 1 race held at Sepang in 2017, claiming his second career victory with Red Bull. However, returning to a track after almost a decade has required some adjustment. Verstappen admitted that even finding his way around the paddock felt unfamiliar, while the physical demands of Sepang are another major challenge. The circuit is known for its heat, demanding corners and significant tyre degradation. Verstappen acknowledged that the track can be physically uncomfortable for drivers, making car setup and tyre management particularly important. Despite his desire for victory, Verstappen knows that Red Bull still face a major challenge against Mercedes. He pointed out that Mercedes have been the fastest team for much of the season, even though Red Bull have recently managed to score strongly. With the championship already largely beyond Red Bull's reach, Verstappen also sees the remaining races as an opportunity to learn more about the car and gather information that could help the team prepare for 2027. The Malaysian weekend therefore represents more than just another race for Verstappen. It is an opportunity to finally break his 2026 victory drought, while also helping Red Bull measure how far its recent improvements have taken the team. And with Sepang being the venue where Verstappen last won a Grand Prix in Malaysia, the Dutchman has plenty of reason to believe that this could be the weekend when his long-awaited 2026 victory finally arrives. In fact, his determination was soon rewarded. Verstappen went on to claim pole position and then converted it into victory in the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, securing his first win of the season and Red Bull's first victory of 2026.