What are the strategy options for the Singapore Grand Prix?

The Singapore Grand Prix will host the first night race since the second round of the season from Saudi Arabia.

Lando Norris starts the event from pole position with title rival Max Verstappen lining up alongside him.

But what race strategies will be in play during the race as the drivers look to climb to the top step of the podium?

A one-stop strategy will be the most likely route to take for the drivers during the race.

The long trip through the pit lane will lead most teams to choose a one-stop option - however the starting choice of tyre could vary.

Taking the start on the medium compound will allow drivers to go deeper into the race before switching to the hard tyre, with the pit window opening between laps 21 and 27.

However it is also a possible choice for the drivers to take the start on the soft tyre in order to gain an advantage at the start and make up positions early.

But this would lead to a tyre disadvantage in the final stint compared to those who opt to start on the medium tyres, as the earlier pit window stretches from lap 13 to 17.

Starting on the hard compound and running deep into the race in the hope of a safety car intervention is also an available strategy, which would be an option used by those starting further back in the grid.

“On paper, from an initial analysis, a medium-hard scenario is the quickest route, with a pit stop window between laps 21 and 27,” said Pirelli Head of F1 Mario Isola. 

“The soft has proved to be a viable option for the first stint, with an earlier stop between lap 14 and 19 to take on the hard. 

“Those starting between the midfield and the front of the grid could also consider starting on the hard to go for the longest first stint possible, with an ideal pit stop window between laps 37 and 43.

“Having said all that, on this type of track, we have often seen, not least last year here, drivers and teams playing tactically with their race pace, especially on the first stint. 

“Neutralisations and the weather are two other unknown factors that definitely have to be taken into consideration, but there is little one can do about those, apart from being ready to make the most of any opportunity that presents itself.”