Russell crashes out of Singapore Sprint after taking the lead

George Russell crashed out of the Singapore Grand Prix Sprint while leading on the opening lap. The Mercedes driver hit the wall at the Marina Bay street circuit on October 10.

Starting second, Russell passed polesitter Max Verstappen to take the lead. At the final corner of the first lap, however, he lost control of his car, which spun before striking the barrier.

The accident triggered a Safety Car period and ended Russell’s Sprint. Verstappen regained first place following his rival’s retirement, so the advantage Mercedes had gained at the start lasted less than a complete racing lap.

The race took place in wet conditions. Red Bull Racing’s Verstappen went on to win the Sprint, while Russell scored no points. The Singapore Grand Prix was the 17th round of the Formula 1 season.

Saturday’s programme continued with qualifying for the main Grand Prix after the Sprint. The Sunday race was scheduled for October 11.