Russell hopeful Singapore strength can aid Red Bull pursuit

George Russell has outlined his hope of competing closer to Red Bull during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend.

Red Bull has dominated the campaign, taking all 14 race wins on offer so far, with Max Verstappen triumphing at 12, including the last 10 straight to set the new all-time record.

Mercedes is expected to be more competitive in Singapore compared to last time out at Monza, due to its car favouring high-downforce circuits.

However, Red Bull has been largely untouchable on race day this year with Mercedes’ win drought stretching back to the 2022 Sao Paulo Grand Prix - the only race since 2022 French Grand Prix Red Bull has been defeated at.

The Milton Keynes-based squad can clinch the Constructors’ Championship for the first time this weekend, however it depends heavily on Mercedes failing to register a strong weekend, with Red Bull needing to out-score Mercedes by 43 points with 44 on offer.

‘Close the gap to Red Bull’

Russell, who has scored just one podium this year, is confident that the Brackley squad can strike more of a challenge to the championship leaders around the Marina Bay Circuit.

"Last year [in Singapore] we had a really fast car and unfortunately, we didn't make the most of it during the weekend,” Russell told media including RacingNews365.

"I think it's so close at the moment between ourselves, Ferrari and McLaren. Aston Martin are fluctuating in performance.

"Hopefully we can close the gap slightly on Red Bull here on the high downforce circuit."

Russell conceded that Mercedes’ fight is likely to be second fastest during the weekend - but acknowledged that the challenging Singapore track will spring its own challenges.

"I think it is that battle for P2 on the road," he said.

"But you're going have to nail every single detail because it's going to be by the smallness of margins."