Kyle Cumbers: Your betting tips for Singapore
The Singapore Grand Prix still feels like a new grand prix, but the first race of its return was in 2008 and it soon made an impact on the world of Formula One.
We all love a bit of controversy in this sport and Singapore started its life on the calendar with one of its biggest controversies – when Nelson Piguet Jr placed his car in the wall to assist his team-mate Fernando Alonso to victory.
Last year’s race had a big impact as well, after Nico Rosberg’s mechanical problem and Lewis Hamilton’s win meant the Brit left Singapore in the championship lead for the first time since Monaco – and he never looked back.
This year Lewis Hamilton has dominated and if you are looking to bet on the winner, he is the safe bet. Unfortunately you won’t get much of a return so I’ve had a look at the other markets and hope to have found some decent bets to guide you…
ONE – As we are all aware, Sebastian Vettel has had an impressive first season in red with eight podiums out of 12 races. And he has been on the Singapore podium five out of the seven times he has raced there. So a podium for the four-times world champion looks a good bet and the odds aren’t too bad. He will have to be aware of Kimi Raikkonen, who has looked strong since he was given the boost of his contract extension – and I believe the Red Bulls will be quick this weekend… but I think the German will enjoy the taste of champagne.
Sebastian Vettel on the podium – Evens (William Hill)
TWO – As I’ve mentioned a few times in these betting previews, I have been impressed with Carlos Sainz Jr this year and I feel he will have an impressive Singapore Grand Prix. I have heard a few times how good the Toro Rosso chassis is this year, and unfortunately the Renault engine is holding it back. Sainz’s performance in Monaco earlier this year would back that up, with the Spaniard starting last and finishing in the points – so my second bet is for him to pick up some more points this weekend. My only worry is the reliability of the Renault engine in the heat, but it is worth the risk.
Carlos Sainz Jr to finish in the points – Evens (Coral)
THREE – Romain Grosjean’s Italian Grand Prix finished almost before it had started, but he will hopefully still be full of confidence after his podium in Spa. He qualified third for the Singapore Grand Prix in 2013 and his price of 6/4 to reach the third qualifying session, Q3, looks good value.
Romain Grosjean to reach Qualifying 3 – 6/4 (Ladbrokes)
Good luck and remember to bet responsibly.
♦ Kyle Cumbers is a member of the NRF1 Podcast crew. Follow Kyle on Twitter @kcumbers