Ferrari became the first team other than Red Bull to win this year with Carlos Sainz’s victory in Singapore
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff called Ferrari’s victory at the Singapore Grand Prix “a breath of fresh air” for Formula 1.
Carlos Sainz dominated the Marina Bay circuit to claim victory, edging out Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton.
It was the first time this year that Red Bull failed to win a Grand Prix after finishing on the top podium in the previous 15 races, dating back to last season’s finale in Abu Dhabi.
Red Bull struggled throughout the weekend in Singapore, with reigning world champion Max Verstappen and teammate Sergio Perez eliminated from qualifying in Q2.
Both drivers increased their points on race day, but neither were able to compete for the win at the top. Small positives
Mercedes challenged Ferrari for the win using an alternate tire strategy, but could not attack Sainz in the final laps for victory.
On the final lap, George Russell hit the wall while running in third place, putting Hamilton on the podium.
Despite losing the battle for victory, Wolff believes the fact that someone other than Red Bull could win is positive for F1.
“I think they [Red Bull] are so strong that they have won every race this year,” Wolff told the media.
“We must not forget that we are facing this unusual situation in Singapore, which has been a difficult ride for us during our years of dominance. “I have no doubt that they will be strong on the regular tracks.
“It’s a breath of fresh air that we have another winner, we have a podium without him, so you have to have small positives in a year of Red Bull dominance.”
