Max Verstappen on verge of second world title as F1 returns to Singapore
Singapore Grand Prix returns this weekend after a three-year absence because of Covid. The flying Dutchman has a mathematical chance to seal back-to-back world titles under lights around the spectacular and demanding Marina Bay street circuit. To do so, the 24-year-old must win the race -- something he has never done in Singapore -- and needs his closest rivals to falter badly.
If that does not happen, the championship fight will move on to the Japanese Grand Prix a week later. It looks a case of when, not if. "You need a bit of luck for that as well," Verstappen told Sky Sports of retaining his crown in Singapore.
"I don't think about it." Verstappen opened up a 116-point lead in the drivers' standings over Ferrari's Charles Leclerc following his victory at the Italian Grand Prix. He is 125 clear of third-placed Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez. He needs to extend his lead to 138 points by Sunday's chequered flag to be crowned with five races to spare -- the earliest championship win since Michael Schumacher's in 2002 with six GPs remaining.
Monza was Verstappen's 11th victory in 16 races of a potentially record-breaking season. He needs two more wins to equal the single-season mark of 13 jointly held by Schumacher (2004) and Sebastian Vettel (2013). "I want to go to Singapore and try to win that race as well," Verstappen said.