Singapore, Max Verstappen’s new challenge
The Dutchman is arriving at a circuit where he has never won before. In Singapore, Max Verstappen has often experienced bad luck. Will it end this time?
Out of his 47 victories and the numerous circuits where he has succeeded, Singapore is missing from the list. The track in the city-state is one of the few that does not suit the Dutchman. Since 2015 and his arrival in the discipline, the Red Bull driver has only stepped onto the podium twice, with a second place as his best result.
In 2017, the double reigning world champion achieved his best qualification there. Starting from second place, he gets sandwiched between the two Ferraris at the start. The collision causes chaos at the first corner. This leads to the retirement of both Ferraris, the Dutchman, and Fernando Alonso.
More gasoline
Last year, with the best car on the grid, Max Verstappen was able to achieve pole position. But he was called back to his pit by his team, just as he was about to finish his lap. Red Bull hadn’t put enough fuel in the race car.
Qualified eighth, the Dutch driver had a difficult time climbing up the ranks. A torrential rain poured just before the start, which was delayed by the race direction. The track later dried, but only one racing line formed on the circuit.
End of famine?
However, despite being faster than his competitors, Max Verstappen was unable to overtake since, with his slick tires, it was impossible to drive on the wet parts. He finished the race in seventh position.
But this streak of bad luck could come to an end as early as this weekend. In 2023, Red Bull’s driver dominates the championship and has achieved ten consecutive victories. For now, it seems that no one is able to beat him. So, will 2023 be synonymous with victory in Singapore for Max Verstappen?