F1 Raceweek: Mercedes´ strategic masterclass puts pressure on Vettel

Singapore, like it was 12 months ago, has been predicted by many to be Ferrari’s race.

And it still could be. Certainly, when Sebastian Vettel smashed the lap record in free practice three, the signs were all positive for the Maranello.

But yet again it is Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton – fresh from victory in Monza last time out that opened up a 30-point gap over Vettel in the drivers’ standings – who are smiling.

The gamble to run supersoft tyres in Q1 almost proved costly when Hamilton limped through in 14th, but the world champion produced a near flawless lap on the hypersofts to take what many considered an unlikely pole.

A year ago, Hamilton was the beneficiary of both Ferraris crashing out following a collision with Max Verstappen and the Briton will be wary of getting overly excited just yet.

He may have help in the form of Verstappen, who starts second and only enhanced predictions that the low-speed circuit would benefit the Red Bulls.

One thing is for sure, Vettel – who starts third – needs his fortunes to change quickly if he is to keep pace with Hamilton in the title race.

QUALIFYING CLASSIFICATION: @LewisHamilton blows the opposition away #SingaporeGP