The Formula 1 championship makes a stop in Singapore this weekend for the Singapore Grand Prix, which will mark the third consecutive race and the seventh of the 2026 season.
Italian driver Kimi Antonelli arrives at Marina Bay with an 84-point lead in the championship over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, who has suffered another mechanical failure, this time in Malaysia. Additionally, Russell will receive a grid penalty for exceeding his engine quota.
For his part, Max Verstappen heads to Singapore full of confidence after securing his first victory of the season in Sepang. Despite having won 72 grands prix, the Dutchman has never stood on the top step of the podium in Marina Bay, a circumstance that could change thanks to the latest improvements to his Red Bull.
This edition of the Singapore GP introduces a novelty, as a sprint will be held for the first time in the circuit’s history. This means that drivers and teams will only have one free practice session on Friday before qualifying for the night sprint race.
How can I watch the F1 Singapore GP?
The television coverage of Formula 1 varies by region. In the United States, Apple TV is the main partner of the competition for the 2026 season, with all sessions available on its platform. F1 TV remains the global subscription streaming service.
In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports continues to be the exclusive broadcaster, offering all live sessions throughout the 2026 season. Additionally, its coverage can be streamed via Sky Go or NOW, with highlights available for free on Channel 4.
Schedules for the Singapore GP
Local Singapore timings for Friday, October 9:
- Free Practice 1: 16:30 SGT
- Sprint Qualification: 20:30 SGT
For UK viewers:
- Free Practice 1: 09:30 BST
- Sprint Qualification: 13:30 BST
For viewers in the Eastern US time zone:
- Free Practice 1: 04:30 ET
- Sprint Qualification: 08:30 ET
Weather forecast for Friday
Friday is expected to be the driest day of the weekend, although late afternoon showers cannot be ruled out. Temperatures could reach up to 34 degrees during the day, with 30-31 degrees during Free Practice 1. Humidity will range between 65% and 70%, which will increase the thermal sensation for the drivers and teams.
The chance of rain during practice is low, although some previous showers could leave parts of the circuit damp. The forecast for the sprint qualification indicates dry conditions, with temperatures around 29-30 degrees as the temperature drops overnight.
The FIA has issued a heat warning for the Singapore GP, as extreme conditions are expected to place additional pressure on drivers.
Information about the circuit
The Marina Bay Street Circuit is a demanding layout characterized by slow corners, walls close to the racing line, and high temperatures and humidity, aspects that require great control, precision, and endurance from drivers.
Weekend schedule for the Singapore GP
- Friday, October 9: Free Practice 1 – 16:30 SGT
- Friday, October 9: Sprint Qualification – 20:30 SGT
- Saturday, October 10: Sprint – 17:00 SGT
- Saturday, October 10: Qualification – 21:00 SGT
- Sunday, October 11: Singapore Grand Prix – 20:00 SGT
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
