Verstappen and Hamilton share friendly moment after Sepang qualifying
Max Verstappen took pole and Lewis Hamilton qualified second for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, and the two champions were seen congratulating each other in parc ferme, sparking positive reactions online.
Max Verstappen claimed the first non-Mercedes-powered pole of the 2026 season at Sepang International Circuit, while Lewis Hamilton qualified second, marking his fifth consecutive front-row start at the venue. After the session, the two drivers were photographed exchanging a friendly handshake in the parc ferme area.
The sight prompted a wave of supportive comments on social media, with users noting the contrast to their historically intense rivalry. Some fans referenced past interactions, while others expressed optimism that the mutual respect could carry over into the race.
Looking ahead to the Bahrain Grand Prix, Hamilton said tyre degradation would be a key challenge and praised Verstappen’s long-run speed. > “I’m much happier with where the car is, but tomorrow is a completely different ballgame. Making these tyres last around this track – they’re overheating from the get-go. Every little bit of wheelspin you have, every little snap you have, makes a difference of how far you’re going to go. I like to think we’ve got a good balance. Max was really quick on his long runs, so I’ll just try my best to hold onto him tomorrow.”