In a race defined by relentless pace and flawless execution, Carlos Sainz delivered a masterclass in damage limitation at the 2025 F1 Singapore Grand Prix. A post-qualifying disqualification saw him start from P18 on the grid. Despite that, he fought tenaciously to seize a valuable championship point.
The Marina Bay Street Circuit is notoriously difficult for overtaking, a track where grid position is often paramount. Starting from the ninth row, any hopes for a significant points haul seemed slim for Sainz. However, the driver and his team demonstrated what can be achieved with strategic brilliance.
A Strategic Masterclass
The foundation of his impressive recovery was a masterful first stint. While many rivals pitted for fresh tyres, Sainz remained out in the F1 Singapore GP, expertly managing his medium compound tyres to extend his run. This strategic gamble was crucial, as it opened up a tyre advantage for the final phase of the race.
When he finally dove into the pits, a fresh set of soft tyres was fitted to his car. Reflecting on this, Sainz commented,“Once I put the softs on, I was able to do a very fast stint and some strong overtakes on track.” He began carving his way through the field, making decisive moves to climb into the top ten.
Speaking after the race, Sainz was pragmatic yet proud of the result. “Given the circumstances, we need to be happy and proud about our performance today,” he stated.
“It was a straightforward race with no safety cars. We still managed to progress through the field and grab a valuable point starting from P18.”
A Proud Team Effort
The sentiment was echoed by his Team Principal, James Vowels, who praised the collective effort that made the comeback possible.
“Congratulations to Carlos on a really strong drive to achieve a point today. Thank you to Alex for working closely on strategy to achieve that result. It really was a team game. “ He commented.
However, the satisfaction was tinged with the frustration of what might have been.
“We couldn’t have achieved more from our starting position, but that only reiterates my disappointment about our qualifying disqualification because we had a quick car today.”
This fighting spirit is what the team will carry into the final leg of the season. Looking ahead, the Team Principal affirmed,
“I’m looking forward to the remaining six rounds of the season, because we have a competitive car and we’re here to fight for our position in the Championship.” He also offered a nod to the newly-crowned champions, a gesture that underlined his own team’s ambitions.
