Verstappen’s Singapore Victory Takes Him to a Record 27 Different Circuits

Max Verstappen secured his maiden Singapore Grand Prix win on Sunday, adding a historic milestone to his 2024 campaign. The Dutch driver, piloting the Red Bull Racing RB19, crossed the finish line first after a strategic pit stop phase and a flawless qualifying performance. The triumph not only gave Verstappen his first victory on the Marina Bay Street Circuit but also marked his 27th distinct Grand Prix venue win – a record that places him ahead of all previous champions.

According to Formula1.com, the win came after Verstappen qualified on pole with a lap time of 1:36.302, edging out Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc by just 0.1 seconds. The race itself was a showcase of Red Bull’s superior tyre management; the team opted for a two‑stop strategy that kept Verstappen in clean air during the crucial middle stint. While Mercedes struggled with brake overheating on the long back straight, Red Bull’s RB19 remained consistent, allowing Verstappen to build a comfortable lead that he never relinquished.

Beyond the personal milestone, the Singapore victory tightens the championship battle. Verstappen now leads the drivers’ standings by 27 points over his nearest rival, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished third after a late‑race safety car. The win also extends Red Bull’s lead in the constructors’ championship to 42 points over Ferrari, reinforcing the team’s dominance on both street and traditional circuits this season.

For Indian fans

The Singapore Grand Prix aired live on FanCode at 9:30 pm IST on Sunday, with a replay scheduled for Monday morning at 7:00 am IST. The race attracted a record viewership in India, reflecting the growing popularity of Formula 1 following the success of the Indian Grand Prix in the past and the rise of streaming platforms. Indian viewers can also catch post‑race analysis on the official F1 YouTube channel, which provides subtitles in Hindi and English.

Verstappen’s expanding list of circuit victories highlights his adaptability across a variety of track layouts – from high‑speed power circuits like Monza to tight street courses such as Monaco and now Singapore. As the season moves to the United States Grand Prix at Austin, the Dutchman will aim to break the 30‑circuit barrier, a feat that would further cement his place among the sport’s greats.

Source: Formula1.com