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Russell saw possible pole-side edge for Verstappen at Singapore Sprint start

Conceptual AI-generated editorial motorsport illustration; not a documentary photograph or evidence that a pictured event, meeting or transfer occurred. · 2026-10-11GPBeat newsroom · News Made Clear generated illustration

Before the 2026 Singapore Sprint, George Russell said Max Verstappen could benefit from the pole-position side at the start, recalling the grip difference he had seen at the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix. Russell qualified second, 0.120 seconds behind Verstappen, and expected to defend P2 off the line before looking for a chance to win.

From the GPBeat newsroomPublished · · 1 min

Before the 2026 Singapore Sprint, George Russell saw a potential start advantage for pole-sitter Max Verstappen. Russell recalled a marked grip difference between the circuit’s left and right sides at the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix, saying drivers on the pole-position side had benefited.

Verstappen secured Sprint pole, with Russell second, 0.120 seconds behind. Russell said his first task would likely be to hold P2 off the line, then see if he could challenge for victory. With overtaking difficult on Singapore’s twisting streets, he believed the launch could dictate the Sprint.

Sources 01
  1. SOURCEMercedes drivers speak out after bitterly divided F1 qualifying session in SingaporeMotorsport.com F1