Charles LeclercDavid CoulthardMax Verstappen 
via Motorsport.comF1 Singapore GP: George Russell on top, Max Verstappen sets impressive lapIn the only free practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, George Russell of Mercedes set the fastest time, clocking in at 1m32.274s on soft tyres. Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing was notable for being half a second quicker than any other driver on medium tyres, finishing sixth overall. The session took place under extreme track conditions, with temperatures reaching 53 degrees Celsius.
Kimi Antonelli initially led the session with a time of 1m33.830s before Russell took over. Other notable performances included Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris, who finished second and third respectively. The session was marred by Nico Hulkenberg's gearbox failure, which brought out a virtual safety car. Overall, the practice session provided valuable insights ahead of the qualifying rounds.
Motorsport.comFri 9 Oct · 09:43 UTC
via CrashGeorge Russell tops Singapore Grand Prix practice sessionGeorge Russell achieved the fastest time in the sole practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, leading ahead of Charles Leclerc from Ferrari and Lando Norris from McLaren. The Mercedes driver set the pace as teams prepared for the upcoming race.
Crash+ 2 moreFri 9 Oct · 09:43 UTC
via RacingNews3651 videoGeorge Russell fastest in Singapore Grand Prix practiceGeorge Russell topped the timesheets in the only practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris. The Mercedes driver showcased strong performance, indicating a competitive edge ahead of the upcoming Sprint Qualifying.
RacingNews365+ 6 moreFri 9 Oct · 09:38 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJuan Pablo Montoya thinks Mercedes are now ‘terrified’ of Red Bull thanks to Max VerstappenMax Verstappen showcased his dominance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, easily outpacing Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. Juan Pablo Montoya commented that Mercedes now appears 'terrified' of Red Bull's performance, especially after the ease with which Verstappen secured his victory in challenging conditions.
Following the race, Mercedes is set to A/B test their aerodynamic packages at the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. Antonelli will run the new specifications while Russell, starting from the back due to an engine change, will use the older package. Montoya noted that Mercedes had pace but could not compete with Verstappen's speed, leading to concerns within the team.
f1oversteer.comFri 9 Oct · 08:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMichael Schumacher's former engineer just saw Red Bull do something that Ferrari 'never' canLuigi Mazzola, a former engineer for Ferrari, has expressed concerns about the team's stagnation in the 2026 Formula 1 season. He highlighted that Ferrari has failed to make significant advancements in their car's development, while Red Bull has shown improvement and competitiveness, particularly through Max Verstappen's skills.
Mazzola pointed out that Ferrari's struggles could lead to questions about their development strategy, especially if Red Bull continues to win races. With Ferrari's title drought extending to 18 years, the pressure is mounting on the team to enhance their performance and regain their status as a leading competitor in Formula 1.f1oversteer.comFri 9 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Naomi Schiff criticises Mercedes' engine penalty for RussellNaomi Schiff has questioned Mercedes' decision to impose a power unit penalty on George Russell for the Singapore Grand Prix. She highlighted that the team's inability to provide him with an upgraded engine has resulted in back-of-the-grid penalties in consecutive races.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreFri 9 Oct · 05:55 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri claims Red Bull made stealthy car changesOscar Piastri has suggested that Red Bull Racing has implemented subtle modifications to Max Verstappen's car, contributing to their recent performance improvements. The McLaren driver noted that these changes may have gone unnoticed but have significantly impacted Red Bull's competitiveness against Mercedes.RacingNews365+ 1 moreThu 8 Oct · 21:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen told how the F1 paddock would see him in the GOAT debate without his four titlesAston Martin ambassador Pedro de la Rosa believes Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is the greatest F1 driver of all time, and that he is one ...f1oversteer.comThu 8 Oct · 19:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Oscar Piastri calls Red Bull the class of the fieldOscar Piastri has stated that Red Bull has become 'the class of the field' in Formula 1, alongside Mercedes. This assessment follows a significant upgrade to Red Bull's RB22, which has impacted the competitive landscape as McLaren appears to be losing ground.PlanetF1+ 1 moreThu 8 Oct · 17:58 UTC
via espn.comHamilton, Max back Rwanda race as talks intensifyLewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have expressed their support for the possibility of Formula 1 returning to Africa, with Rwanda emerging as a leading candidate to host a Grand Prix in the 2030s. Discussions are ongoing, and while South Africa is also vying for a return, Rwandan officials have indicated progress in their bid.
Hamilton highlighted the importance of having a Grand Prix in Africa, stating that it is the only continent not currently represented in the F1 calendar. Verstappen, who visited Rwanda in 2024, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about the potential race. George Russell also voiced his enthusiasm, noting that Africa is the only continent without an F1 race, emphasizing the need for representation.
espn.comThu 8 Oct · 16:12 UTC
via Motorsport WeekLewis Hamilton reveals regret at missed Max Verstappen F1 battle in Bahrain GPLewis Hamilton expressed his disappointment at missing a chance to battle Max Verstappen during the rain-soaked Bahrain Grand Prix. The FIA intervened before the race, delaying the start and ultimately affecting the track conditions, which Hamilton felt robbed him of an exciting competition with Verstappen.
Despite the setback, Hamilton managed to recover from a poor start caused by slick tyres and finished third. He reflected on the experience as reminiscent of his early karting days, where he often had to fight his way through the field. Hamilton now looks forward to the upcoming race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Motorsport WeekThu 8 Oct · 16:00 UTC
via espn.comGeorge Russell leads Singapore GP practice for MercedesGeorge Russell topped the only practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, while his teammate Kimi Antonelli finished in seventh place. Mercedes is testing different car specifications, with Russell using the older front wing and Antonelli on the updated design.espn.com+ 4 moreThu 8 Oct · 15:40 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc thinks he knows why Ferrari always go backwards ‘as soon as qualifying starts’Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari’s rival Formula 1 teams keep showing something “we currently don’t have” in qualifying, despite the pace they keep displaying in practice. ...f1oversteer.comThu 8 Oct · 15:40 UTC
via Formula1.comFerrari drivers 'here to attack' in Singapore GPLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc are looking forward to the Singapore Grand Prix, expressing confidence in Ferrari's ability to compete at the front. Hamilton, fresh off a podium finish in Malaysia, stated that they are 'here to attack' and highlighted the importance of a strong qualifying session. He believes the car's performance on street circuits could play to their advantage, especially given the high downforce requirements of the Singapore track.
However, Leclerc remains cautious, noting that Ferrari's recent performance has seen them slip behind competitors like McLaren and Red Bull. He acknowledged the team's historical strength at the Singapore circuit but stressed the need to focus on current performance rather than past successes. Both drivers are determined to maximise their chances this weekend despite the challenges posed by the Sprint format.
Formula1.comThu 8 Oct · 14:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen criticises driver cooling vest ruleMax Verstappen has expressed his disapproval of the mandated driver cooling vest in Formula 1, stating it has never lasted an entire race. His Red Bull teammate Isack Hadjar has called for the device to be banned altogether.RacingNews365+ 1 moreThu 8 Oct · 14:50 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen identifies Red Bull's Singapore concernsMax Verstappen has expressed his concerns about Red Bull's performance ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, highlighting the need to address specific weaknesses. He acknowledged the competitive threat posed by Ferrari at the start of the race.Motorsport.com+ 2 moreThu 8 Oct · 14:46 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Leclerc and Hamilton criticise Ferrari's Bahrain strategyCharles Leclerc has called on Ferrari to 'look in the mirror' following a significant strategic error during the Bahrain Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton also highlighted that Ferrari engaged in a 'huge discussion' about the blunder, stating it 'wasn't good enough'.
Sky Sports F1+ 1 moreThu 8 Oct · 14:15 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc’s mental coach highlights how he refuses to back down vs Lewis Hamilton at FerrariCharles Leclerc's mental coach, Riccardo Ceccarelli, emphasised that both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are fiercely competing for the top spot at Ferrari, with no intention of stepping back. This rivalry is notable as Ferrari is the only leading team without a clear driver hierarchy, unlike Red Bull and Mercedes, where roles are more defined.
Ceccarelli highlighted Leclerc's lifelong desire to win, which he believes is crucial for his success in Formula 1. However, he also cautioned that this intense focus on competition, particularly against Hamilton, could lead to a narrow-minded approach in decision-making. The recent strategy at the Sepang race, where both drivers started on slick tyres, has raised questions about Ferrari's tactics.f1oversteer.comThu 8 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen misses former teammate Daniel RicciardoMax Verstappen has expressed that he misses the time spent with his former Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo during their Formula 1 careers. Verstappen reflected on their partnership, highlighting the positive experiences they shared.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreThu 8 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via Formula1.com1 videoVerstappen answers your questions in our exclusive Q&AMax Verstappen recently participated in a Q&A session where he addressed various topics related to his career and personal life ahead of his 250th Grand Prix in Singapore. He discussed his journey in Formula 1, his hobbies such as playing padel, and the joys of being a new father. Verstappen also shared insights on his relationships with fellow drivers, particularly reminiscing about his time with Daniel Ricciardo.
In his responses, Verstappen emphasized the importance of honesty and simplicity in life, expressing a desire to be remembered for being himself. He reflected on the lessons learned from each race and highlighted the value of spending quality time with family and friends. Overall, the Q&A provided a glimpse into Verstappen's personality and his approach to both racing and life.Formula1.comThu 8 Oct · 13:54 UTC
via RacingNews365Ferrari issues light-hearted apology after social media chaosFerrari has released a light-hearted 'unofficial statement' following a social media takeover by drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. The team acknowledged the playful hijacking of their Instagram account by the two drivers.RacingNews365+ 3 moreThu 8 Oct · 12:50 UTC
via f1oversteer.comHow Hannah Schmitz feels about joining Ferrari after Charles Leclerc praised Red Bull strategistsCharles Leclerc has acknowledged that Ferrari could learn from Red Bull's strategy team following their performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Leclerc noted that Red Bull consistently makes better strategic decisions, which was evident when they opted for intermediate tyres while Ferrari chose slicks, leading to a significant time loss for the Scuderia.
Hannah Schmitz, who has been with Red Bull since 2009 and is currently their head of race strategy, has been mentioned as a potential target for Ferrari. However, she has expressed a strong preference to remain in England due to family commitments. Despite her high regard in the paddock, Schmitz's reluctance to relocate complicates any potential move to Ferrari, especially as the team has not shifted its operations to the UK.f1oversteer.comThu 8 Oct · 11:30 UTC
via thejudge13.comGeorge Russell reverts to old Mercedes specificationGeorge Russell has decided to revert to a previous specification of the Mercedes W17 for the Singapore Grand Prix, calling it a 'no-brainer' decision. Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli will continue to use the upgraded package that was introduced in Malaysia.
thejudge13.com+ 5 moreThu 8 Oct · 10:44 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star Charles Leclerc excited to become a father for 'second time'Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has announced that he is excited to become a father for the second time, with the couple expecting their new arrival later this year. Leclerc, who married Alexandra in Monaco earlier this year, expressed his joy during an interview, highlighting that they already consider their dog Leo as their first child.
Despite the demands of his Formula 1 career, Leclerc emphasised the importance of family time and managing his responsibilities. Alexandra is currently staying home in Monaco while Leclerc competes in the Singapore Grand Prix, but he reassured fans that her pregnancy is progressing well.
gpfans.comThu 8 Oct · 10:27 UTC