Max Verstappen speaking after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix - Photo: Race Pictures

Verstappen ready for shake-up, eyes Singapore glory

18:13, 28 Sep

Updated: 18:30, 28 Sep

bySamson Ero

Max Verstappen has weighed in on the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. The Red Bull Racing driver also highlighted several factors that may need to align to deliver a strong outing at the Marina Bay circuit.

“I hope this year we’ll be a bit more competitive.”

- Max Verstappen

Verstappen highlighted the unique characteristics of the Marina Bay circuit, while also touching on the uncertainty surrounding tyre degradation.

“It’s completely different. High downforce. A lot of degradation on the tyres, so we’ll see what happens. I really don’t know at the moment.”

Discussing what would be required to achieve his maiden win at the circuit, Verstappen also detailed how the car needs to feel right throughout the race weekend.

Max Verstappen clinched victory at the Azerbaijan GP - Photo: Race Pictures

“Depends on a lot of things. If the car is shocking to drive, yes, it’s really hard to keep it in a straight line. But if the car is nice to drive, then it’s more about just the physicality of it. At the same time, if everything’s going well, you can relax a bit more, and then naturally it’s less physical as well.”

Verstappen on preparation for Singapore

“Let’s wait and see. I mean, it’s always hot, and you’re sweating a lot, so you have to prepare for that. But I guess we’ve all done that — heat training and stuff — preparing for these kinds of races. Basically, it’s about getting comfortable with the uncomfortable.”

“I don’t mind it. It’s a cool track. Of course, I’ve never won there, but it’s a cool feeling to drive, and I hope this year we’ll be a bit more competitive.”

The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the few F1 races where Verstappen is yet to taste victory. Of his eight previous entries at the event, his best result remains a second-place finish, which he has achieved on two occasions, including in 2024.

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