Singapore not ideal for sprints, say Hamilton and Verstappen

Singapore’s Marina Bay Street Circuit needs redesigning for sprint racing, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton said after Saturday’s inaugural 20-lap sprint. Rain delayed the start and the race delivered limited overtaking, with much of the action coming from collisions and a record nine retirements. Verstappen, who won, argued that “overtake mode” and the track layout do little to create passing opportunities, calling for a longer straight or a more proper hairpin. Hamilton said the circuit is great for qualifying and one-lap pace, but not for close racing. George Russell spun into the wall while leading, and two McLarens collided on the final lap.