Antonelli expects a tough test at Singapore’s first F1 Sprint

Before Singapore hosts its first F1 Sprint weekend in 2026, championship leader Kimi Antonelli says the rapidly changing conditions at Marina Bay will make the event especially demanding.

The format compresses set-up work: the sole practice session is held in daylight, Sprint Qualifying takes place at night and the Sprint itself is scheduled for the afternoon. Alpine Racing Director Dave Greenwood says teams normally have three practice sessions to fine-tune their cars. With only one in Singapore, he says they will have less time to dial in the car and must rely more on pre-event preparation and simulator work.

That puts added emphasis on FP1: Max Verstappen says finding a good balance with the car straight away will probably help for the rest of the weekend. Sergio Perez, by contrast, welcomes the added uncertainty and tension, saying a driver can make a difference on a street circuit where building confidence is difficult.