Verstappen vows to end Singapore winless run at Marina Bay
Verstappen vows to end Singapore winless run at Marina Bay
SINGAPORE: Max Verstappen has said he is determined to settle his “unfinished business” at the Singapore Grand Prix, the one circuit on the current Formula 1 calendar where the four-time world champion has never won. Verstappen spoke on Thursday ahead of Sunday’s night race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Why Max Verstappen struggles at Marina Bay
Singapore’s bumpy street layout, slow corners and punishing humidity have never suited Verstappen or Red Bull. “I think in the last few years we have always been bad at low speed and over kerbing and bumps,” he told reporters. “This car is probably more competitive at low speed, but we still struggle on bumps and kerbs. We know that and so, of course, I have unfinished business here.”
Momentum from the Bahrain win
Verstappen arrives in Singapore with momentum. He took his first victory of the 2026 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia last weekend, the 72nd win of his career. He finished second in Singapore last year behind George Russell’s Mercedes and believes he can go one better this time. “Every year I come back here and I’m trying to win it,” he said. “I hope we can be a little more competitive this year compared to the last few years.”
A sprint weekend raises the stakes
This year’s Singapore Grand Prix is a sprint weekend, which leaves drivers and teams with only one Friday practice session to find the right setup. “It’s always hectic, a sprint weekend, to make the right choices,” Verstappen said. “The most important thing is just to find a good balance with the car straight away.” The reduced running time puts extra pressure on teams, with haze already a concern around the circuit this week.
The record that still eludes him
Verstappen has contested every Singapore Grand Prix since joining Red Bull in 2016 without winning, despite several podium finishes including second places in 2024 and 2025. Marina Bay remains the only current track to deny him a victory, a gap he is eager to close while Red Bull’s form is on the rise.
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix?
The race takes place on Sunday, 11 October, at the Marina Bay Street Circuit. It is a sprint weekend.
Has Max Verstappen ever won in Singapore?
No. He has raced there every year since 2016 without a win, though he has finished on the podium several times.
Why is Singapore difficult for Red Bull?
The bumpy track, slow corners and high humidity reward cars that ride kerbs well at low speed, an area where Red Bull has historically struggled.
Who won last year’s Singapore Grand Prix?
George Russell won for Mercedes, with Verstappen finishing second.
