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Singapore GP Rewrites F1’s Form Book: Russell Wins, McLaren Seals Title, Tensions Rise

With Red Bull rebounding and six rounds to go, McLaren must manage a sharpening NorrisPiastri duel as scrutiny of F1’s TV directing grows.

Overview

  • George Russell converted pole into victory for Mercedes as recent aero tweaks lifted race pace, and Toto Wolff said the team plans to run Kimi Antonelli and Russell in 2026 even as Russell’s contract extension remains unsigned.
  • McLaren clinched the Constructors’ Championship in Singapore, but opening‑lap contact between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri intensified their rivalry, with experts urging the team to pick a lead driver while McLaren says its racing guidelines stay the same.
  • Max Verstappen took second as Red Bull’s underbody and front‑wing development delivered competitiveness on a high‑downforce circuit, which Laurent Mekies and Pierre Wache described as an encouraging sign heading to Austin.
  • Broadcast direction drew backlash after key on‑track moves went unseen in Singapore, with Carlos Sainz complaining that multiple overtakes were missed and F1 responding that the broadcast prioritizes the racing action.
  • Ferrari’s form faltered again with no wins this season and a shrinking buffer to fourth in the standings, prompting pointed remarks from Charles Leclerc about the car and fresh external criticism of the team’s direction.