Motor Racing
Singapore Grand Prix preview: Verstappen to break Marina Bay hoodoo?
Formula 1 runaway leader Max Verstappen is set to face his toughest challenge of the season in this Sunday’s Singapore Grand Prix as he seeks to extend his record-breaking 10-race winning streak. Marina Bay is one of the circuits where Red Bull’s double-world champion has never tasted victory, and his record therefore provide a glimmer of hope to his eager rivals.
Verstappen has been nothing short of dominant this season, winning 12 out of the 14 races so far, with 10 consecutive wins not only putting him at the top of the 2023 championship standings but securing him a place in the history books of the sport. The Dutch sensation now boasts an impressive tally of 47 wins from 177 starts, placing him fifth on the all-time list. He is hot on the heels of Alain Prost, who holds the fourth position with 51 victories.
Red Bull’s remarkable success however extends beyond Verstappen’s individual achievements, with the team having won every race this year, including two victories for Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Perez. Their winning streak dates back to Abu Dhabi last year, an incredible run of 15 consecutive wins. Moreover, Red Bull has enjoyed an unprecedented six one-two finishes in 2023, a testament to their unparalleled performance this season. No team has ever achieved such a feat in a season with more than 10 races.
Despite Verstappen’s incredible form, the Singapore Grand Prix presents unique challenges. The Marina Bay Street Circuit has undergone modifications due to ongoing construction work, featuring a shortened layout with 19 corners and a longer straight, promising a faster and more thrilling race. Last year, Verstappen struggled in Singapore, finishing in a distant seventh place while his teammate Perez clinched victory ahead of the two Ferrari drivers.
Nonetheless, the Dutchman will start as the heavy 1/4 favourite to make it a mind-boggling 11th straight win, with teammate Sergio Perez the second favourite at 15/2. The Ferrari duo appear to be Red Bull’s closest challengers for Sunday’s race, with Carlos Sainz’s (33/1) recent pole position in Monza, along with Charles Leclerc’s (28/1) pole in Singapore last year, suggests that the Scuderia could mount a strong challenge against Red Bull’s dominance.
In addition to Ferrari, other teams have had their moments in the spotlight this season, with Red Bull, Alpine, Aston Martin, McLaren, and Mercedes all securing podium finishes. However, Verstappen has maintained remarkable consistency, never finishing below second place in any race.
While Verstappen’s record-breaking performances continue to make headlines, it’s worth noting some other contenders within the Formula 1 grid. Lewis Hamilton (18/1), the all-time leader in race victories with 103 wins, has been on a victory drought since December 2021 and is undoubtedly hungry for a return to the winner’s circle. Fernando Alonso (18/1), with 32 wins to his name, will be eager to add to his tally, with his last victory dating back to 2013 when he was with Ferrari.
