LONDON, United Kingdom, Sept 9 – Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is eager to witness the impact of significant track alterations at the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, where the entire Formula 1 grid will face a fresh challenge.
The alterations include the replacement of Turns 16-19 with a high-speed straight connecting Turns 15 and the former Turn 20, transforming the medium-speed right-hander into a prime overtaking opportunity.
The most notable change is the removal of the iconic snaking section beneath the grandstand due to ongoing construction work, which is expected to reduce lap times by nearly 20 seconds. This dramatic shift in track layout will compel teams to rethink their car setups, as the reduced downforce and the potential for overtaking at the new Turn 16 pose intriguing challenges.
Despite the absence of DRS on the new section, Verstappen, on the hunt for his 11th consecutive win, is looking forward to the Singapore night race. “Marina Bay is a cool circuit,” Verstappen stated, adding, “This year it will be interesting to see how the revised track layout will impact the general behaviour and setup of the car. I think the lap times will be much quicker.”
Verstappen acknowledged the unique challenges of the Singapore Grand Prix, highlighting its status as one of the most demanding races on the calendar. “Singapore is probably going to be the most challenging weekend out of the upcoming races as the stakes are heightened on a street circuit, and the field is usually very close, not to mention the heat and humidity,” he explained.
Teammate Sergio Perez, the defending race-winner at Marina Bay, is celebrating his 250th Grand Prix start, making him only the 11th driver to reach this milestone.
Perez fondly remembers his outstanding performance at last year’s race and hopes to repeat his success despite the track changes and expected rain.
Perez remarked, “Of course, I would love to repeat the win but it will be tricky, the new track layout is going to make things quicker in sector three, and there will be rain, so it could be fun!”
As the Formula 1 season progresses, the Singapore Grand Prix, scheduled for this upcoming weekend, promises to deliver a physically demanding and thrilling race on the 5.063km Marina Bay Circuit’s bumpy street surface, all under the challenging conditions of extreme humidity.
