Motor racing-Singapore not ideal for sprints, say Hamilton and Verstappen
Formula One drivers Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have criticized the Singapore circuit for being unsuitable for sprint races due to a lack of overtaking opportunities. Both drivers suggested that track modifications are necessary to improve the racing experience.
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The feedback from top athletes influences the design and future scheduling of major international sporting events.
SINGAPORE, Oct 10 (Reuters) - Singapore's Formula One circuit needs re-designing and lacks entertainment value for a sprint race, Saturday's sprint winner Max Verstappen and runner-up Lewis Hamilton said after the 20-lap race involved little overtaking.
Rain delayed the start of the inaugural sprint at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, and with overtaking nearly impossible the only drama came in the form of collisions and a record nine retirements.
"I think we shouldn't host a sprint where you can't pass," Red Bull's polesitter Verstappen told reporters after notching his first victory at the circuit.
"I'm fine, I just do my thing... but it's not what I like.The overtake mode, it barely does anything here. You don't really gain a lot on the straights ... we need to have a longer straight or like more of a proper hairpin to overtake."
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10 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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