Lewis Hamilton and George Russell faced significant challenges during the recent Singapore Grand Prix, experiencing extreme “overheating” that prevented them from participating in post-race media engagements. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff described the race as “painful” for the team, highlighting the demanding nature of the Marina Bay street circuit, known for its intense heat and humidity. Russell, who finished in fourth place, expressed the discomfort via team radio, remarking, “it’s like a sauna in here.”
This year’s race marked a historic moment as it was the first in its 16-year history to run without a Safety Car interruption. Wolff reported that both drivers were suffering from overheating but managed to recover by utilizing ice baths.
The race was particularly disappointing for the Mercedes team, with both drivers struggling against the quicker pace of their competitors, including the McLarens, which claimed the top two positions, and Max Verstappen of Red Bull finishing second. Hamilton’s race deteriorated after starting third on the grid due to a miscalculated strategy that involved starting him on soft tyres, resulting in a sixth-place finish. Meanwhile, Russell was overtaken by Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who climbed from ninth to finish ahead of him.
Wolff acknowledged that their strategy for Hamilton did not work and admitted that the team was “too slow” overall. He stated, “It’s not about the positions we finished in; it’s not good especially when you are starting third and fourth. We’re struggling with hot and traction-demanding tracks, but there is no excuse. If your quickest car is a minute behind the leader, it’s difficult to accept.”
Hamilton’s experience during the race included an early pit stop that ultimately hindered his performance, losing crucial track position to Russell, who had started on medium tyres. Wolff admitted the team miscalculated the tyre strategy, and with the challenges they faced, they should have opted for the medium tyres for Hamilton from the start.
Post-race, Hamilton reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of a tough race, stating, “This year continues to be a testing one for everyone, but we are all pushing as hard as we can. We don’t always get things right, and that was the case today.” He emphasized the need to analyze their performance and regroup ahead of the upcoming United States Grand Prix.
Russell shared his sentiments about the difficult race, acknowledging the impressive pace of the McLarens and stating, “It was very much an evening of damage limitation.”
With just six races left in the 2024 Formula 1 season, the adrenaline-filled series resumes with the United States Grand Prix in Austin from October 18-20.
