Max Verstappen has ruled out extending his record winning streak after qualifying only 11th for today’s Singapore Grand Prix.
A remarkable qualifying session under the lights at the Marina Bay Circuit saw Ferrari's Carlos Sainz pip the Mercedes of George Russell to land his second pole position in as many races. Charles Leclerc will start third ahead of Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton.
But it was the demise of Red Bull - the unbeaten tour de force of this most one-sided of seasons - that left those here in shock and awe. Verstappen's team-mate Sergio Perez also failed to reach Q3. He will line up in 13th for Sunday's 62-lap race. Verstappen has historically struggled on this track, and suffered a qualifying mishap here last year.
Earlier, Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll walked away from a staggering 110mph shunt, which has ruled the Canadian out of the race. Stroll was able to climb unaided from his car on Saturday but Aston said in a statement that he was still sore and the team also faced a huge job repairing the car in time for the night race.
Overtaking is fairly tough around these narrow, if scenic, streets so grid positions will prove key come lights out.
Singapore Grand Prix start time
The race takes place on Sunday, September 17, 2023 and is scheduled to start at 1pm BST.
Singapore Grand Prix grid positions
1) Carlos Sainz
2) George Russell
3) Charles Leclerc
4) Lando Norris
5) Lewis Hamilton
6) Kevin Magnussen
8) Esteban Ocon
9) Nico Hulkenberg
10) Liam Lawson
11) Max Verstappen
12) Pierre Gasly
13) Sergio Perez
14) Alex Albon
15) Yuki Tsunoda
16) Valtteri Bottas
17) Oscar Piastri
18) Logan Sargeant
19) Zhou Guanyu
20) Lance Stroll
Singapore Grand Prix weather forecast
There is currently a low chance of rain affecting the race, with a few showers forecast for the mornings of the track action on Saturday and Sunday. Temperatures will hover around a balmy 32°C.
How to watch the Singapore Grand Prix
TV channel: In the UK, the entire weekend of racing is being broadcast on Sky Sports F1. Free highlights of the race will air on Channel 4 at 5.30pm BST.
