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In a riveting display of skill and strategy, Carlos Sainz Jr. emerged victorious at the Singapore Grand Prix for Ferrari on Sunday, September 17. This win symbolises a significant moment in the world of Formula One racing as it brings a halt to the historic winning streaks of Max Verstappen and his team, Red Bull.
Red Bull had set their sights on claiming victory in every race this season. However, the Singapore Grand Prix witnessed Verstappen finish in the fifth position and his teammate, Perez, conclude in the eighth. This ends Verstappen's individual win streak at 10 consecutive races, and Red Bull's team streak at an impressive 15, inclusive of one from the previous year. Both feats have set new benchmarks in the Formula One annals.
The Ferrari champion, Sainz, who initiated the race from the pole position, displayed exemplary endurance. He skillfully navigated the circuit on considerably worn tires, especially during the intensely competitive final laps. This race marks his second Formula One career victory, placing him ahead of notable names like McLaren's Lando Norris and the indomitable Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes. George Russell's unfortunate crash on the concluding lap from the third spot granted Hamilton an unexpected rise to the podium.
Sainz, reflecting on his performance, remarked, “I felt under control. I felt like I could manage well and we brought it home. That was the best feeling.” Additionally, he revealed a tactical decision to slow down to allow Norris to benefit from the DRS straight-line speed boost. This strategy was instrumental in keeping the Mercedes contenders at bay.
The race was not without its surprises. Lewis Hamilton, commenting on Mercedes’ game plan, mentioned, “We rolled the dice this weekend.” An intriguing strategy saw both Mercedes vehicles pitting for new tires towards the end, resulting in Russell losing his second-place position in pursuit of victory.
Another noteworthy performance was from Charles Leclerc who secured the fourth spot, though he struggled to fend off the Mercedes duo on his aging tires. Verstappen, the reigning champion, had his share of challenges. Starting the race from the 11th position, he momentarily claimed the second spot behind Sainz, largely because most competitors had pitted for new tires. Post his pit stop, he displayed determination, ascending from the 15th position.
Concluding the top ten were Pierre Gasly in sixth for Alpine, followed by Oscar Piastri for McLaren in seventh, after initiating from the 18th spot. Perez secured the eighth position. The ninth spot heralded a personal achievement for rookie Liam Lawson, marking his inaugural points for AlphaTauri, and rounding off the top ten was Kevin Magnussen representing Haas.
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