Verstappen Wins Singapore Sprint After Russell Crashes From Lead

Max Verstappen won the Singapore Grand Prix sprint race on 10 October after Mercedes driver George Russell crashed out of the lead on the opening lap. Russell's exit handed the Red Bull driver control of the shortened Saturday race. Kimi Antonelli finished fourth to hold a championship lead of 89 points after the sprint, according to BBC Sport.

Russell fell out at the final corner at the end of the first lap after running wide. He had been leading the field when he lost grip and hit trouble. Track conditions were half dry and half wet, which left very little margin for error.

Verstappen had taken pole position for the sprint on Friday, 9 October, meaning first place on the starting grid, according to Reuters. The weekend also marked his 250th grand prix start in Formula 1. He was left to bring the sprint home after Russell's early exit.

There was more late drama behind him. McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri collided at Turn Five on the final lap. The contact came as Norris tried to pass Piastri.

Antonelli kept clear of the trouble to take fourth place for Mercedes. He arrived in Singapore 84 points ahead of teammate Russell in the standings. That leaves him 89 points clear at the top after the sprint points were added.

Russell faces a difficult Sunday. His engine penalties apply to Sunday's grand prix, not the sprint, according to Reuters. He was already expected to start the main race from the back of the grid.

For fans, this means Sunday is now wide open. Verstappen has the momentum. Antonelli has the points cushion. Russell has everything to chase.