Analyst: Verstappen's Title Shot Stronger After Singapore GP

Former F1 driver and current F1 TV analyst Jolyon Palmer believes Max Verstappen's chances of winning the drivers' title have significantly improved following the Singapore Grand Prix. Palmer argues that Red Bull's competitive showing on a circuit vastly different from recent venues like Baku and Monza indicates a fundamental improvement in the car's performance.

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's pursuit of another F1 drivers' title faces stiff competition, with the Singapore GP serving as a crucial test. Red Bull's performance on a historically challenging track, coupled with Palmer's analysis, suggests a potential shift in momentum, impacting the championship fight's trajectory and Verstappen's chances to regain a dominant lead.

The Details:

• Competitive Performance in Singapore: Palmer highlighted that Red Bull's competitiveness in Singapore, a circuit known for its unique demands and where Verstappen has yet to win, is a strong indicator of the team having 'found something on the car.'
• Circuit Diversity: Unlike high-speed tracks such as Baku and Monza where Red Bull traditionally excels, Singapore's tight, twisty layout demands a different car setup and aerodynamic efficiency, suggesting a broader improvement in the RB21.
• Verstappen's Race Pace: According to Palmer, Verstappen's pace on race day was 'very even' with the front-runners. He inferred that had Verstappen secured pole position, a victory was highly probable.
• Qualifying Incident Analysis: Verstappen's Q3 incident, where he aborted his final lap due to a slow McLaren ahead, was dissected. Palmer noted that while 'dirty air' might have played a role, Verstappen was likely heading for a second-place grid slot regardless, indicating a limit to the car's ultimate qualifying pace on that specific circuit.

The Big Picture:

Verstappen's title bid now looks more promising, especially if Red Bull can consistently perform across varied circuit types. The championship battle is tightening, and every point becomes critical. To secure the title, Verstappen not only needs to win races but also rely on Mercedes and Ferrari drivers to take points away from his direct rivals, thereby creating a buffer in the standings.

What's next:

With the season progressing, all eyes will be on how Red Bull capitalizes on these perceived improvements. The next few races will be critical in confirming whether the Singapore performance was an anomaly or a sign of a sustained competitive edge. If Red Bull can maintain this newfound form, Verstappen could be well on his way to solidifying his position in the championship fight, potentially setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the season.