Hamilton Apologises as Antonelli Closes on F1 Title

Lewis Hamilton apologised to Ferrari after a strategy error cost him valuable points at the Singapore Grand Prix, while Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli moved closer to securing the Formula 1 world championship.

Hamilton Takes Responsibility for Ferrari Error

Hamilton finished sixth after choosing to remain on track during a virtual safety car period instead of following Ferrari’s instruction to pit. The decision left him struggling with tyre degradation in the closing laps, allowing three rivals to overtake him. The seven-time world champion apologised to his team over the radio, accepting responsibility for the strategy and the points lost. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur said the mistake was not a major concern, stressing that both drivers and the team could make errors.

Ferrari Defends Its Strategy

Hamilton later explained that he had intended to preserve track position after finding better pace on the soft tyres. However, his earlier stint on the medium compound had not delivered the performance he expected, forcing him to pit earlier than planned. Ferrari brought both cars in during the virtual safety car period, which offered an opportunity to make pit stops with less time lost. Hamilton missed the pit entry and decided to stay out, but his tyres deteriorated significantly before the finish. Vasseur defended Ferrari’s decision to keep Charles Leclerc ahead, arguing that Leclerc had a six-lap tyre advantage because he had stopped later. Leclerc finished third, while Hamilton dropped to sixth. Hamilton said he accepted full responsibility and would work to return stronger at the next race.

Antonelli Closes in on Historic Title

Hamilton’s result strengthened Antonelli’s position in the championship standings. The Mercedes driver finished third behind race winner Max Verstappen and Leclerc, extending his lead over team-mate George Russell to 102 points and his advantage over Hamilton to 111. Antonelli could secure his first world title at the United States Grand Prix in Austin on 25 October if he builds a lead of at least 125 points with five races at most remaining afterwards. A victory, combined with sufficiently low finishes for Russell and Hamilton, would put the championship beyond reach. The 20-year-old would become the youngest Formula 1 world champion if he clinches the title this season. Antonelli acknowledged the opportunity but said he needed to maintain his performance and avoid losing focus.

Championship Schedule Remains Uncertain

The championship calculations could change if races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are cancelled because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Formula 1 is continuing with its original schedule for now, but further developments could affect how many rounds remain. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said the team was concentrating on scoring points rather than calculating when Antonelli might become champion. He noted that unexpected results, including Hamilton’s lost points in Singapore, could influence the standings.

Mercedes Seek Performance Improvements

Mercedes tested different car specifications in Singapore as it continued investigating problems with an aerodynamic upgrade introduced at the previous race in Malaysia. Antonelli used the new specification, while Russell drove the older version. The team reported progress in understanding the upgrade, although Antonelli said the car remained sensitive to driving style, braking and cornering. He hopes practice sessions in Austin will help Mercedes unlock more of its potential. Russell said the team needed to improve after Red Bull’s recent strong performances, adding that Mercedes must return to winning ways before the season ends.

Verstappen Celebrates Red Bull Revival

Verstappen secured his first Singapore Grand Prix victory and his second consecutive win, highlighting Red Bull’s improved form after a difficult start to the season. The four-time champion credited improvements in drivability and predictability for the team’s progress but remained cautious about its prospects in Austin. He also warned that the circuit’s bumpy surface could make the race physically demanding. Verstappen said he was focused on enjoying the remaining races rather than chasing a particular championship position, with the upcoming rounds presenting different technical challenges for the teams.