Wed Sep 18 04:46:46 UTC 2024: ## Verstappen Eyes Singapore Comeback as Red Bull Trails in Constructors’ Standings

**SINGAPORE** – Max Verstappen has declared “the fight is not over” after Red Bull were dethroned from the top of the Formula One constructors’ standings for the first time in two and a half years. The reigning world champion now faces a daunting task as he attempts to reclaim the championship lead with seven races remaining.

McLaren’s impressive performance, culminating in Oscar Piastri’s victory in Azerbaijan, has propelled them to a 20-point lead over Red Bull. Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ standings has also been significantly reduced to 59 points, with a maximum of 206 points still up for grabs.

Despite a string of victories earlier in the season, Verstappen has struggled in recent races, with McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes all claiming race wins. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko admitted that retaining the constructors’ title seems unlikely, but Verstappen remains optimistic about his chances.

“Marina Bay is a cool circuit, but we do expect this to be a bit more of a challenge,” Verstappen said. “We think we know what we can do better and of course need to make sure we are optimising the set-up.”

However, Red Bull’s history in Singapore doesn’t bode well for Verstappen. The team has struggled on the challenging street circuit, with their only victory there since 2013 coming from Sergio Perez last year. Verstappen has never won at Marina Bay, and overtaking remains difficult.

Adding to the uncertainty, tropical storms and intense humidity are forecast for the race weekend, further complicating the challenge.

McLaren, meanwhile, are in high spirits as they pursue their first team world title since 1998. “First in the constructors’ championship is an important milestone in our journey,” said team principal Andrea Stella.

Mercedes, who traditionally perform well on the high-downforce Singapore track, are also aiming for a strong showing. Lewis Hamilton, recovering from an engine change setback in Baku, is looking forward to new upgrades coming before the end of the season.

Charles Leclerc, who won at Monza but failed to convert a pole position into victory in Azerbaijan, vows to “come back stronger” in Singapore as he remains in the hunt for the drivers’ title.

The Singapore Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling battle as teams and drivers fight for valuable points in the final stretch of the season.

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