Lights, Carnage, Action + Verstappen Win? 2022 Singapore GP Preview

'Tight-twisty, hot-humid, physically demanding, Asian race but on European timezone' - some of the buzzwords we expect to hear as Singapore returns to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. 

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In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Soumil, Sundaram and Kunal preview the upcoming 2022 Singapore Grand Prix. Yes, the stories are the same - another Max Verstappen win? Or can Ferrari claim one? Will Mercedes be in the fight? Will Alpine be quicker than Mclaren, again?

But we've got different narratives we're looking forward to this weekend. Tune in!

(Season 2022, Episode 58)

Follow our hosts: Sundaram Ramaswami, Soumil Arora and Kunal Shah

Image courtesy: Singapore GP website

# Inside Line F1 Podcast: Singapore Grand Prix Preview

## Episode Overview:

The Inside Line F1 Podcast team, consisting of Soumil Arora, Sundaram Ramaswami, and Kunal Shah, provide an in-depth preview of the upcoming 2022 Singapore Grand Prix. They discuss various aspects of the race, including:

### 1. Race Anticipation:

- Excitement for the return of Formula 1 to Singapore after a long absence.
- The unique characteristics of the Singapore Grand Prix, such as being the first street race since Jeddah and taking place under the lights.
- The anticipation of seeing how Ferrari will perform after their recent struggles.

### 2. Safety Concerns:

- The high likelihood of safety car appearances due to the tight and twisty nature of the circuit.
- The added challenge for drivers who are racing in Singapore for the first time.
- The potential for accidents, especially considering the unpredictable nature of the circuit.

### 3. Max Verstappen's Dominance:

- The possibility of Max Verstappen securing his second Formula 1 World Championship title in Singapore.
- The permutations and scenarios that could lead to Verstappen winning the title.
- The significance of Verstappen matching Fernando Alonso's career wins and world championship tally.

### 4. Statistical Milestones:

- Verstappen's impressive record of winning from various grid positions in his career.
- Red Bull's preference for winning both titles in Japan due to their engine supplier's home race.
- The unique challenges of the Singapore Grand Prix, such as the high number of gear changes and the physically demanding nature of the race.

### 5. Ferrari's Chances:

- The potential for Ferrari to regain form and challenge for the win in Singapore.
- The team's recent struggles and the need for a strong performance to boost morale.
- The possibility of strategic errors and race pace issues hindering Ferrari's chances.

### 6. Mercedes' Performance:

- The uncertainty surrounding Mercedes' competitiveness in Singapore.
- The team's recent improvements and potential for a podium finish.
- The impact of the circuit's high downforce requirements and the bumpy nature of the track on Mercedes' car.

### 7. Midfield Battle:

- The tight battle for positions in the midfield, particularly between Alpine and McLaren.
- The importance of qualifying and track position in determining the outcome of the race.
- The potential for surprises and upsets due to the unpredictable nature of the Singapore Grand Prix.

### 8. Notable Drivers to Watch:

- The focus on Sebastian Vettel, who has a strong record in Singapore and could deliver a memorable performance in his potential final race at the circuit.
- The need for Mick Schumacher to perform well amidst the uncertainty surrounding his Formula 1 future.
- The battle for seventh place in the Constructors' Championship between Alfa Romeo and Alpha Tauri.

### 9. Track Evolution and Strategy:

- The significance of track evolution and tire management in determining the race strategy.
- The potential for a safety car to influence the race outcome.
- The importance of timing laps and qualifying effectively to gain an advantage.

### 10. DRS Zones and Overtaking Opportunities:

- The presence of three DRS zones around the circuit, offering opportunities for overtaking.
- The narrow nature of the track and the difficulty in making passes, especially in recent years.
- The hope for exciting on-track action and close battles throughout the race.

# Inside Line F1 Podcast: Episode 58 - Singapore Grand Prix Preview

**Synopsis:**

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Soumil, Sundaram, and Kunal preview the upcoming 2022 Singapore Grand Prix. They discuss the narratives to watch for, the chances of Max Verstappen winning again, Ferrari's potential to challenge, and the possibility of Mercedes being in contention. They also delve into intriguing statistics and predictions for the race, including Carlos Sainz's unique history at the Singapore Grand Prix and Fernando Alonso's pursuit of the record for most race starts in Formula One history.

**Key Points:**

* The Singapore Grand Prix is a challenging street circuit that emphasizes pole position, with eight of the 12 previous races being won by the pole sitter.
* Red Bull has not won a race in Singapore during the hybrid era, and Antonio Giovinazzi has led more laps around the circuit than Max Verstappen.
* Kevin Magnussen has had the fastest lap of the race for the past two Singapore Grand Prix's, showcasing the potential of the Haas car on this track.
* For the win prediction, Sundaram favors Max Verstappen based on his and Red Bull's current form, while Kunal chooses Carlos Sainz out of personal preference.
* Checo Perez is seen as a potential challenger to Verstappen, given his history of out-qualifying him at street races this season, although he has struggled to maintain his early-season form.
* The podcast hosts encourage listeners to join their live race watch-along with legendary British Formula 1 commentator Steve Slater, where they will analyze the race, share insights, and engage in discussions with viewers.

**Overall Message:**

The Inside Line F1 Podcast provides an informative and engaging preview of the 2022 Singapore Grand Prix, discussing various storylines, statistical quirks, and predictions for the race. They also promote their live race watch-along session with Steve Slater, inviting listeners to join them for an enhanced race viewing experience.