The Singapore Grand Prix Culminates in High Drama: Max Verstappen’s Record Streak Ends, George Russell in Final Lap Crash

During the Singapore Grand Prix, Max Verstappen had a swift reaction upon inquiring about George Russell’s dramatic crash. The Mercedes driver had been battling compatriot Lando Norris for second place at Marina Bay when his race abruptly ended due to a collision with the outside wall approaching turn 10, resulting in a collision with the barrier.

Fortunately, Russell emerged from the incident unharmed. However, Verstappen was left puzzled by the crash and radioed his team principal, Christian Horner, seeking more information. Verstappen asked, “So by whom did he [Russell] go into the barrier?” To which he received the response, “On his own.”

Verstappen’s reply was succinct but expressive. He responded with a simple “Oh… ok.” Interestingly, despite the conclusion of his record-breaking winning streak in Singapore, the Red Bull star actually benefited from Russell’s crash.

The reigning Formula One champion managed to climb from the bottom of the grid to secure a fifth-place finish, his lowest final position since the previous season’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix, where he finished sixth. He maintains a comfortable lead in the race for another title.

Verstappen maintained a relatively positive outlook on his race despite the disappointing finish. He commented, “We had some bad luck with the Safety Cars as well. The first one was at the wrong point, and also the second one came at the wrong point for us. So [it was] a bit of a shame. I had fun in the second stint. We were quite quick on the medium compound.”

In contrast, Russell displayed visible emotion when discussing his last-lap crash. Speaking to Sky Sports immediately after the race, he said, “No words to be honest. Such a long, physical race. Difficult to keep concentration. Carlos [Sainz] did a great job backing the pack up, not allowing us to do the alternative strategy. I think we were half a car’s length from winning the race had I got past Lando when I had the opportunity, I think we would have been able to get past Carlos.”

He continued, “Then just the last lap, a millimeter lapse of concentration and game over. So just sorry to the whole team. It was a really challenging race, the tires were dropping off, and you are pushing the limits. That’s how racing should be, you make a small mistake and you are bitten for it.”

Both Russell and Verstappen will be eager to improve their fortunes in the upcoming F1 race at Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix next weekend.