Singapore Grand Prix Talking Points

2016 optimism building

Lewis Hamilton looks destined to retain his title this season, putting the spotlight onto 2016. And that already looks likely to be more competitive than this year.

Renault are about to complete the takeover of Lotus, ending their relationship with Red Bull. Toro Rosso is also likely to rid themselves of the troubled engines, while Lotus will obviously swap from Mercedes to Renault.

Rumours suggest that Red Bull will agree a deal with Ferrari, which should make them a competitive beast at the front in 2016 after this year’s mediocre campaign.

Meanwhile, Manor are likely to leave Ferrari to make room for their new customers and take Lotus’s place as a customer of Mercedes. It all sounds very confusing, but, in theory, it will make 2016 far, far better than this year.

Hamilton to realise his dream

No, this isn’t his unrivalled wish to win around the streets of Singapore, but his childhood ambition to match Ayrton Senna.

Hamilton, like many of the drivers on the grid, idolised the great Brazilian and wanted to become a F1 driver because of his influence. This year he is almost certain to equal Senna’s three world titles, and this weekend he could equal Senna’s 41 race wins.

The Mercedes has been dominant this year, but then Senna drove for the all-conquering McLaren.

The Brazilian may have had some added stardust which Hamilton lacks but it will be a fine achievement for a fine driver when he reached that important milestone. Hamilton’s legacy and place in the sport’s history keeps going from strength to strength.

McLaren have a realistic chance of scoring points

Bored of reading about McLaren misery? Well, this weekend you might not have to as points are a realistic aim for the Honda-powered team.

To master Marina Bay engine power is less important, which suits McLaren as they don’t have much of it. Aerodynamically they are in good shape, while the likes of Williams and Lotus could struggle.

Expect the McLaren, Toro Rosso and Red Bull to be at the sharp end come Sunday afternoon.

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