Singapore Grand Prix Race 2025: Russell Takes Starting Spot
Everything is prepared for an action-packed evening race in the Lion City as the Mercedes driver starts from pole after a stunning time trial.
Race Preview
Hello and welcome to updates from the Singapore Grand Prix. Russell stole the show during Saturday's qualifying with a stunning run in his Mercedes to take the top spot, pipping the Red Bull team's Max Verstappen who qualified second. Championship frontrunner Piastri qualified P3, while Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli and the McLaren driver completed the leading quintet.
“Yesterday presented numerous challenges, so I'm thrilled to bounce back with this strong performance. I knew there was potential in the car.”
Grid Setting Standings
The starting grid looks as follows:
- Russell (Mercedes team)
- Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- Lando Norris (McLaren)
- Hamilton (Scuderia Ferrari)
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- Hadjar (RB)
- Oliver Bearman (Haas)
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin F1)
Alexander Albon and Sainz (both Williams Racing) look set to begin the competition from the pit area after being excluded from qualifying.
Pre-Race News
Track Conditions
Given the racing surface damp in sections and dry in others, racers anticipate a challenging competition at Marina Bay. Track temperatures around the circuit measures approximately 33.3C, making this a grueling challenge for racers.
Competitor Insights
Hamilton shared his concerns about his qualifying performance, noting that his team consistently loses rubber warmth while lining up before exiting.
A major after-qualifying topic focused on the Red Bull driver's frustration with Norris, with Verstappen arguing he was impeded during time trials.
“They always complain, they protest about everything, that's how Red Bull operates,” said Norris. “I had no idea, I was approximately three seconds in front or something.”
Race Start
The race cars are circulating the track with the parade lap due to commence shortly before lights out. This represents F1's original night race, adding to the distinctive environment at the Singapore circuit.
Singapore's national anthem has concluded and drivers are now heading to their garages for final preparations before the event commences.
Event Forecast
The big question concerns whether Russell will hold his position around the challenging Marina Bay track or whether the competitors behind might pass him. With championship implications at stake, viewers are watching the front-runners as they make final preparations for this crucial nocturnal competition.