Sprint Highlights | 2026 Singapore Grand Prix

Singapore Grand Prix Sprint Highlights

The Sprint began on a rain-soaked, slippery Marina Bay track. George Russell made the best launch and took the lead, while Lewis Hamilton moved into third. Max Verstappen dropped to second, and Oscar Piastri lost ground as the field searched for grip through the spray.

Early Race

Russell’s lead lasted only until he spun at the final corner. His right-rear tyre touched the slick curb, and the Mercedes slid into the pit wall, ending his race and bringing out the Safety Car. Verstappen inherited the lead, with Hamilton second and Charles Leclerc third.

The difficult conditions and crowded track caused further trouble during the Safety Car period. Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll made contact at Turn 16, and Stroll retired. Isack Hadjar later pulled off with an apparent engine-braking problem, while Arvid Lindblad spun and slid down the circuit. A traffic squeeze at the final chicane also led to contact involving Alex Albon, Valtteri Bottas and Gabriel Bortoleto. Their cars sustained damage, but there was no opportunity for a strategic pit stop.

Restart

Verstappen led the field back to green-flag racing, ahead of Hamilton, Leclerc, Piastri and Lando Norris. Oliver Bearman seized his chance, passing Pierre Gasly to move into eighth and claim the final points position. Nico Hülkenberg later challenged Gasly, forcing the Alpine driver wide.

Closing Laps

Hamilton closed on Leclerc, while Norris pressured Piastri for the remaining podium place. McLaren did not impose team orders, and on the final lap Norris launched an attack down the inside at Turn 5. The two McLarens collided: Piastri retired, and Norris fell back, allowing Kimi Antonelli, Liam Lawson and Bearman to move up. Hülkenberg also gained ground, while Norris ultimately took the final point.

Verstappen stayed clear to win the Sprint by 2.5 seconds over Hamilton. Leclerc held on for third, just ahead of Antonelli. Lawson, Bearman and Hülkenberg also benefited from the late McLaren collision.

Presenters and Sources

Formula 1 race commentary; individual commentators are not identified in the subtitles.