Max Verstappen rules himself out of record-equalling fifth consecutive F1 title

Max Verstappen has ruled himself out of claiming a record-equalling fifth consecutive F1 drivers' title after failing to win the Singapore Grand Prix. 

Verstappen started in second but failed to challenge pole-sitter George Russell for victory, who cruised to the win at the Marina Bay Circuit. 

The Dutchman spent the majority of the race defending from Lando Norris, who had a quicker car than Verstappen but was unable to overtake. 

Throughout the grand prix, Verstappen dealt with downshift, braking and balance issues with his RB21, all of which he wants Red Bull to understand ahead of the United States GP. 

By finishing ahead of Norris and Oscar Piastri in fourth, the 28-year-old took a further three points out of the Australian's advantage over him, which now sits at 63 points.

Despite taking more points out of Piastri's lead, Verstappen is convinced his chances of winning a fifth consecutive title are over after failing to win in Singapore. 

Asked by Sky F1 if he remains in the drivers' title battle, Verstappen replied: "For that you need to win. You need to dominate. We're not doing that, or at least we're not doing that this weekend. 

"So, we're not catching up enough. For that you had to win today, and we didn't. Yeah, that's how it is. We already lost way too many points in the beginning of the season. 

"That's quite clear, but we just try to see it race by race. We tried to do the best we can, this track is still not our favourite, I think also for the car, but nevertheless, second, I think, is still a great result."