As Formula 1 returns to the intense and unforgiving Marina Bay Street Circuit for the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, there’s more at stake than just the win. The Singapore GP, known for its searing heat, unforgiving corners, and late-night spectacle, promises another dramatic chapter in what has already been a sensational season. Here are five key storylines that will have everyone talking this weekend.
1. Singapore’s Heat Puts Drivers to the Test
Singapore’s night race may look stunning under the floodlights, but it’s a grueling physical challenge for drivers. Temperatures soar above 30°C, and inside the cockpits, it can feel like a blistering 60°C. The race has drivers battling dehydration, fatigue, and extreme heat, often losing up to 5kg in body weight over the course of the event.
Drivers begin preparing for Singapore months in advance with rigorous training sessions, ice baths, and acclimatization techniques to withstand the sauna-like conditions. The recent changes to the circuit have also made it faster and more demanding, with a new long straight after Turn 14 offering fresh overtaking opportunities, making the race even more intense.
2. Can McLaren Widen the Gap Over Red Bull?
McLaren’s stunning resurgence this season has seen them leapfrog Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship, with Oscar Piastri’s brilliant win in Azerbaijan and Lando Norris’ strong drive to fourth. Heading to Singapore, McLaren will be looking to stretch their lead further.
Norris has a strong track record here, finishing second last year, while Piastri’s impressive form on street circuits makes him a serious contender. With McLaren firing on all cylinders, another big points haul could see them further solidify their place at the top.
3. Red Bull in Crisis Mode
For Red Bull, the 2024 season has gone from bad to worse. Once dominating, they have now been overtaken by McLaren, and their struggles were on full display in Baku, where Max Verstappen finished a disappointing fifth. Singapore has never been kind to Verstappen; he struggled massively here last year, finishing behind even AlphaTauri’s Liam Lawson in qualifying.
Sergio Perez, who won in Singapore in 2022, hasn’t had much luck either, suffering crashes and mistakes in recent outings. With Red Bull’s title hopes hanging by a thread, the Singapore GP could be a pivotal moment for the reigning champions to either bounce back or face another tough weekend.
4. Ferrari’s Chance for Another Smooth Operation
Ferrari, the disruptors of Red Bull’s perfect season in 2023, arrive in Singapore with high hopes. Carlos Sainz, last year’s winner, will be aiming to replicate his heroics and bounce back from a disappointing Baku race. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc, who has twice secured pole in Marina Bay, will be eager to turn his qualifying prowess into a long-overdue victory.
With Red Bull struggling and McLaren’s momentum growing, Ferrari has a golden opportunity to capitalize and claw back vital points in both championships.
5. Is This Ricciardo’s Final Stand?
Daniel Ricciardo’s return to the grid has been far from the fairy tale many hoped for. Rumors of his imminent exit have only intensified after a string of lackluster results and missed opportunities. With Red Bull seemingly moving towards Liam Lawson for 2025, Ricciardo’s future hangs in the balance.
The Australian’s hopes of a Red Bull return were dashed earlier this year, and now, every race feels like an audition to save his seat. Singapore could be his last chance to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level, but with the team’s struggles, a standout performance may be a tall order.
As the paddock gears up for one of the toughest races of the season, the storylines are heating up almost as much as the tarmac. From title fights to career-defining moments, the Singapore Grand Prix promises another unforgettable chapter in a season already full of twists and turns.
