Source: Official Team Post via X
Verstappen Dominates in Singapore for His First Win at Marina Bay
Max Verstappen celebrated his 250th Grand Prix start with a victory at the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix, fending off a challenge from Charles Leclerc. Kimi Antonelli secured third, strengthening his lead in the championship.
In the sweltering heat of Singapore, Max Verstappen marked his 250th Grand Prix start with a flawless performance, clinching his first victory at the Marina Bay Street Circuit. The Red Bull driver, starting from pole, maintained his lead at the start, holding off Ferrari's Charles Leclerc into the first corner. Despite Leclerc's initial pressure, Verstappen soon pulled away, establishing a comfortable gap.
The mid-race pit stops did little to disrupt Verstappen's stride. A seamless switch from soft to medium tires kept him ahead, even as radio issues forced communication to revert to old-school pit boards. In the end, Verstappen cruised to his 73rd career win, finishing 7.3 seconds ahead of Leclerc.
Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli completed the podium, adding valuable points to his championship tally. The McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri followed in fourth and fifth places, ahead of Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari. Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson claimed seventh, with Audi's Nico Hulkenberg in eighth.
Further back, George Russell and Isack Hadjar executed strong recovery drives, finishing ninth and tenth respectively despite starting from disadvantaged positions. Alpine's Pierre Gasly narrowly missed out on points, finishing 11th.
The race saw three retirements: Lance Stroll with a clutch issue, Franco Colapinto with driveline troubles, and Gabriel Bortoleto with gearbox woes.
The weekend began with Verstappen winning a rain-affected Sprint and securing his first pole position at this circuit. On race day, he demonstrated his mastery over the tight, tricky layout, despite the challenges posed by the humid conditions and strategic calls.
Verstappen's victory in Singapore adds yet another highlight to his illustrious career, as he prepares for the next challenge at the United States Grand Prix in Austin.