Red Bull’s dominant Max Verstappen can clinch a second world championship when the Singapore Grand Prix returns this weekend after a three-year absence because of Covid.
The flying Dutchman has a mathematical chance to seal back-to-back world titles under lights around the spectacular and demanding Marina Bay street circuit.
To do so, the 24-year-old must win the race – something he has never done in Singapore – and needs his closest rivals to falter badly.
MERCEDES CHASE FERRARI
Red Bull also look sure to wrap up the constructors’ championship – although they won’t do so in Singapore – but the race for second is still alive with Mercedes banking on a late-season revival to overtake early front-runners Ferrari.
The consistent George Russell is still in mathematical contention for the drivers’ crown in his first Mercedes season, though a Verstappen victory would end his hopes.
But the Silver Arrows are pushing hard and are 35 points behind Ferrari, who have suffered from a combination of reliability issues and strategic blunders.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has won four times in Singapore, but Russell was cautious about the pair’s chances of ending the team’s 2022 win drought.
“Singapore could be interesting,” said Russell.
“But historically it’s a circuit where Mercedes have struggled a little bit.”
Ferrari were buoyed by Leclerc’s second place at their home race at Monza two weeks ago and can attack Singapore with more confidence.
“I think we made a step ahead,” said team principal Mattia Binotto.
Carlos Sainz cut through the field to finish fourth for Ferrari in Italy, with his charge for a podium place scuppered only by a late safety car.
“It’s clear as well if you look at the other cars behind us, we made a step ahead,” said Binotto.
This will be Singapore’s first grand prix since the pandemic and signs are that the city-state is relishing having racing back.
Authorities have not released exact numbers, but ticket sales have already exceeded 2019, they say.
Source: SuperSport
