Singapore Sprint weather forecast: Rain threat could shake up Verstappen-Russell battle

Rain could hit today’s Singapore Grand Prix Sprint, with one forecast putting the chance of showers at around 70% when the race starts at Marina Bay.

Max Verstappen starts from pole alongside George Russell after beating the Mercedes driver by 0.120 seconds in Sprint Qualifying. Charles Leclerc is third, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris fourth and fifth. The possibility of rain adds some uncertainty before the 21-lap race.

Rain risk for Singapore Sprint

Formula 1’s official weekend forecast gives Saturday a 40% chance of precipitation, with temperatures of up to 32C. The risk may be higher around the Sprint. Motorsport.com reports around a 70% chance of rain at the 5pm local start, although the heavier showers could arrive earlier and clear before the race.

That makes the timing important. Even if the Sprint begins without rain falling, an earlier shower could leave parts of the circuit damp.

Marina Bay is already difficult for overtaking, putting extra importance on Verstappen and Russell’s front-row positions. Leclerc has both McLarens immediately behind him, while championship leader Kimi Antonelli starts seventh.

As we covered in our look at the title race before the Singapore Sprint, Russell has a chance to reduce Antonelli’s championship lead before his grid penalty takes effect for tomorrow’s Grand Prix.

The Singapore Sprint starts at 10am UK time, with the weather likely to remain uncertain until close to the start.