Hamilton Urges Singapore Circuit Overhaul: 'Without Rain, It Would Have Been the Most Boring Race'

Pulse Sports Team 15:47 - 10 October 2026

Lewis Hamilton believes that while the Singapore street circuit remains thrilling over a single flying lap, significant layout tweaks are needed to facilitate genuine overtaking. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc went even further, insisting Formula 1 should scrap sprint races on street venues altogether.

The final sprint race of the 2026 Formula 1 season delivered pure drama. Only 13 of the 22 cars reached the chequered flag at Marina Bay, with George Russell's heavy shunt and a collision between the McLaren teammates triggering heated debates in the paddock. Despite the chaotic action, drivers were unanimous that overtaking was virtually impossible, as a single dry line on the drying track left practically no room for attacking manoeuvres.

Hamilton, who crossed the line second in the sprint, called for further circuit modifications to enhance the racing spectacle for both drivers and fans. Over the years, Marina Bay has undergone multiple changes—the awkward 'Singapore Sling' chicane was removed in 2013, and Turns 16 to 19 were bypassed in 2023 due to construction work. However, the seven-time world champion believes more must be done.

"I really love this race, but I was just saying to Max that the layout needs to be changed," the Ferrari driver said. "We need a longer straight somewhere so we have a proper chance to attack and the track can deliver quality racing. It's awesome on a qualifying lap, but there's practically nowhere you can get close enough to make a move."

"In places like Turn 16, there's a massive bump right in the middle of the tarmac with sparks flying everywhere. I don't know if it's down to the drainage, but improvements could definitely be made. It was fun out there, but in dry conditions, this would've been one of the most boring races to watch. The rain saved the entertainment. Otherwise, it would've just been routine tyre management and a DRS train."

Should Formula 1 abandon sprints on street circuits?

While Hamilton focused on corner design and straights, Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc urged championship bosses to rethink venue selection for the sprint format. Singapore—much like Monaco—was chosen to offer two qualifying sessions, but the races themselves have frequently underdelivered.

"I don't think we should be running sprints where overtaking is impossible," Red Bull sprint winner Max Verstappen said. "There are tracks made for great wheel-to-wheel racing, but at others, you just can't fight—and next year we have a sprint in Monaco as well."

The Dutchman added that the issue is further compounded by the current technical regulations:

"The overtake mode barely makes an impact around here and doesn't give you enough of an edge on the straights. With these regulations and battery deployment, you can't build up the necessary speed differential to attack. I agree that a longer straight or a tighter hairpin would help, but we also need a bigger delta in straight-line speed."

Charles Leclerc took an even firmer stance on running sprint events on tight street tracks:

"Overall, sprint races on street circuits don't make much sense. We should only run this format at venues where overtaking is straightforward and there's plenty of action, adding real value to the race weekend. Here or in Monaco, the sprint simply doesn't bring anything to the table."

Loading discussion…