Hamilton and Verstappen Call for Changes to Singapore GP Circuit
Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are in agreement that Singapore's Marina Bay Street Circuit needs modifications to enhance overtaking opportunities. Both drivers suggest a longer straight might transform the track into a truly great racing circuit.
Lewis Hamilton has voiced his opinion that Singapore’s Marina Bay Street Circuit could benefit from a longer straight, potentially elevating it to a 'truly great racing circuit.' He shared this suggestion with Max Verstappen, who echoed the sentiment, proposing either a longer straight or a hairpin to facilitate overtaking. Verstappen also mentioned that current Overtake Mode limitations at this circuit hinder passing opportunities.
While the Singapore Grand Prix is notorious for its demanding nature, it's not exactly known for frequent overtaking. Despite this, it was chosen as a Sprint venue for 2026. The weekend saw Verstappen clinch victory in both the Sprint and the main race, with a pre-race downpour adding unpredictability. Hamilton, however, was less fortunate, losing positions to Kimi Antonelli, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri during the main event due to tyre wear.
Post-Sprint, Hamilton, Verstappen, and Hamilton’s Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc were asked about Singapore’s role as a Sprint host. Hamilton suggested improvements to the track layout to enhance the racing spectacle. He expressed his appreciation for the track, noting its potential despite limited overtaking spots. Hamilton remarked, 'If it was dry, that would have been probably the most boring race for you to have watched. It was the wet, the rain, that made it exciting.'
Verstappen supported Hamilton's view but noted that track alterations alone wouldn't solve overtaking challenges, especially given current regulations. He stated, 'I think we shouldn’t host a Sprint where you can’t pass.' He also criticized the current Overtake Mode, which provides limited advantage on this circuit.
Leclerc chimed in, agreeing with his peers and arguing against Sprint races on city tracks like Singapore and Monaco, where overtaking is notoriously difficult. He suggested that Sprints should be held on tracks more conducive to overtaking, enhancing the racing action over the weekend.
Though Singapore won't feature in F1's expanded 10-sprint schedule for 2027, the inclusion of Monaco has already sparked debate among drivers and fans alike.