Singapore Grand Prix early prediction – can Piastri recover from Baku slip-up?

The Formula 1 season has already delivered its fair share of drama, from unexpected podiums to crushing dominance at circuits that were supposed to level the playing field. Next up is Singapore, one of the crown jewels of the calendar. The Marina Bay Street Circuit is famous for its brutal humidity, unforgiving walls, and the fact that no race is ever straightforward under the floodlights.

So what might we expect this year? With form guides, team momentum, and circuit characteristics in mind, here’s an early prediction for who could emerge victorious, who could make the podium, and how the midfield points battle might unfold.

The Fight for Victory

Oscar Piastri: The Driver to Beat

McLaren have emerged as the most consistently strong package of 2025, and Oscar Piastri is making the most of it. He has already taken multiple wins this season, showing the poise of a seasoned champion despite being just in his second full title fight. The Marina Bay layout should suit McLaren’s car well — their strong traction out of slow corners and efficiency under braking is exactly what’s needed in Singapore.

More importantly, Piastri has developed a reputation for making minimal mistakes under pressure, which is critical in Singapore where one small lapse can mean a brush with the wall and a ruined race. Expect him to start the weekend as the favourite.

We expect him to bounce back from his poor weekend in Baku, as he isn’t a driver who seems to be affected by mistkaes and setbacks.

Max Verstappen: Street Circuit Specialist

Never count out Max Verstappen. The Dutchman thrives on street circuits, where his inch-perfect control and ability to thread the needle between walls give him an edge over almost anyone. After Red Bull’s rebound win in Monza and Verstappen’s grand slam in Baku, the momentum is shifting back in their favour.

The big question is whether Red Bull’s package can handle the technical middle sectors of Singapore as well as McLaren’s. If they can keep tyre degradation in check, Verstappen will be a serious contender for victory.

Lando Norris: Hungry to Bounce Back

Piastri’s teammate, Lando Norris, can’t be overlooked either. While he’s sometimes been second-best to the Australian this season, Norris’ street circuit form is strong. The team may also want to manage their intra-squad rivalry carefully, after controversies in Monza where strategy decisions created tension. Norris will feel this is his chance to reclaim momentum.

Predicted Podium

Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – Consistency, calmness, and a car that suits the circuit.

Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – Street-racing expertise will keep him in contention, but McLaren’s traction advantage may tip the balance.

Lando Norris (McLaren) – A double podium looks realistic if McLaren manage their drivers well.

The Midfield Points Battle

The midfield remains one of the most fascinating storylines of 2025. In Singapore, where attrition is high and safety cars are almost guaranteed, the opportunity for surprise points is greater than at most circuits.

Williams – Sainz & Albon

Williams have been the standout midfield team this season. Carlos Sainz’s podium in Baku proved just how far they’ve come, and Singapore offers another chance to score big. Sainz’s experience could be crucial in managing the chaos of a two-hour night race. Alex Albon, meanwhile, has been the reliable hand who consistently brings home points. Expect both cars in the top 10.

Ferrari – Leclerc & Hamilton

Ferrari have struggled with tyre wear, which will be a key factor in Singapore. Charles Leclerc has always been strong on street tracks, but unless Ferrari manage their long-run pace better than in recent outings, he may be fighting for the lower end of the top 10. Hamilton will also be hoping to capitalize on attrition to add more points to Ferrari’s tally.

Racing Bulls – Hadjar & Lawson

Isack Hadjar has been one of the breakout stars of 2025, scoring his first F1 podium at Zandvoort. Singapore could be another chance for him to shine, especially if he keeps his composure under the inevitable safety car restarts. Lawson, however, is under pressure with his future seat uncertain, and will need a strong showing to fend off Tsunodas shadow.

Alpine & Aston Martin

Both Alpine and Aston Martin have been inconsistent this year. Fernando Alonso’s experience is invaluable, but Aston’s pace has often let him down. Alpine, meanwhile, remain mired in internal questions about their 2026 plans, which seem to be distracting from on-track performance. Expect points only if the race turns chaotic.

Safety Cars, Strategy & Surprises

If there’s one thing we know about Singapore, it’s that safety cars are almost guaranteed. Since the race’s introduction in 2008, every single edition has featured at least one. That makes strategy timing critical.

The hot, humid conditions also make this one of the toughest races physically for drivers, meaning concentration and endurance will be as important as raw pace. Teams with strong reliability and fewer mistakes in the pits will have the upper hand.

As for surprises? Don’t rule out another unlikely podium contender if circumstances align. Williams, Racing Bulls, or even Haas could capitalize if the front-runners trip over themselves.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Singapore Grand Prix promises to be a classic blend of tension, unpredictability, and endurance. McLaren, led by Oscar Piastri, arrive as the favourites, with Verstappen ready to spoil the party and Norris eager to prove a point. Behind them, the midfield scrap between Williams, Ferrari, and Racing Bulls could deliver as much drama as the fight at the front.

Predicted Podium:

1st Oscar Piastri (McLaren)

2nd Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

3rd Lando Norris (McLaren)

But as Singapore has taught us time and again — from last-minute crashes to strategy blunders — no prediction is ever truly safe. And that’s exactly why Marina Bay remains one of the most anticipated stops on the Formula 1 calendar.