Red Bull driver Max Verstappen claimed his first-ever victory at the Singapore Grand Prix, delivering a commanding lights-to-flag performance. Despite grappling with a radio malfunction that prevented him from communicating with his pit crew, the Dutchman controlled the race from start to finish.
Verstappen held off an early challenge from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who ultimately crossed the line seven seconds behind in second place. It marked Verstappen’s second consecutive win of the season, extending his dominance on the tracks he favors.
In stark contrast, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton endured a difficult afternoon. The Mercedes driver apologized for a flawed strategic approach that saw him drop down the order late in the race. Placed on older tires during the critical final stages, Hamilton was overtaken by both Kimi Antonelli and his McLaren teammate Lando Norris, eventually finishing sixth.
Antonelli capitalized on the chaos surrounding Hamilton to secure third place, a result that significantly boosts his championship hopes. The Italian now leads George Russell by 102 points in the Drivers’ Championship standings. This margin means Antonelli can mathematically clinch the world title at the next event in Austin on October 23-25, provided he outscores Russell by at least 23 points.
McLaren’s Oscar Piastri also benefited from Hamilton’s struggles, overtaking the British driver late in the race to complete the top five. reigning champion Lando Norris finished fourth ahead of Piastri.
George Russell recovered from a difficult qualifying session, where grid penalties for a new power unit dropped him to 19th on the starting grid. Overtaking proved exceptionally challenging at the tight Marina Bay Street Circuit, but Russell managed to fight his way back to ninth place. Verstappen’s win continues his strong form, while Antonelli’s podium push adds a compelling narrative to the final stretch of the 2026 season.
Antonelli leading Russell by 102 points? The title could be decided in Austin. This season just got way more interesting.
Verstappen with a radio failure and still dominating? That’s pure driving talent. Singapore is now his circuit.
Hamilton’s apology was refreshing. Strategic blunders cost him dearly, but at least he owned it.