Oracle Red Bull Racing champions Max Verstappen and Sergio “Checo” Perez participated in a unique challenge in Singapore, racing on motorized cleaning carts on a specially constructed indoor track. The race began with a mock sprint race, with Max leading early. However, Checo’s attempt to take a shortcut violated track limits, securing Max’s victory. The event took place at Jewel Changi Airport.
In the Cleaning Challenge, drivers navigated an expanded track with obstacles like muddy footprints, dirt, rubbish, and leaves. Max, starting in pole position, maintained his lead despite a head-to-head battle with Checo. Max’s vehicle cleaned more debris during the pit stop, and he sprinted to the finish line, clinching first place in the inaugural World’s Cleanest Race. Oracle Red Bull Racing ambassador Josh Denzel presented Max with a pre-broken trophy, sparing him the effort of breaking it himself.
“It was great,” stated Checo when asked about the challenge. “When I got to see the cart for the first time, I was shocked with it.”
When asked about the unique nature of today’s event, Max laughed stating, “At this stage, being with the team, I’m quite used to it. They come up with quite a lot of things so this was another one.”
Jewel Changi Airport, renowned for its autonomous fleet of cleaning robots, was chosen as the venue for the Lion City and Formula 1’s first night street race. The city, known for its diverse culinary culture, attractions, and gardens, is also home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. The event, supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, showcases the city’s vibrant beauty and attracts racing fans and Oracle Red Bull Racing drivers.
It’s always good to be in Singapore. It’s an incredible track and the fact that it’s a night race makes it even more special. It is of course a very warm race which can be challenging, so it’s definitely one of the toughest races on the calendar,” said Max.
Checo echoed similar sentiments, adding, “It’s a track that’s really hard on us and the cars. We just have to deliver to the maximum.”
The World’s Cleanest challenge, held before the Singapore Grand Prix, serves as a warm-up for racers before the big race. Checo aims to repeat his impressive performance from last year, while Max aims to extend his record-breaking streak with a potential first-time victory in Singapore. Both drivers are focused on overcoming challenges on street circuits, as there are many other cars that can be quick and the gaps will be tight. Both drivers are eager to see what they can do to achieve their goals.
To catch the epic action and the infectious laughter of Max Verstappen and Checo Perez, zoom over to Oracle Red Bull Racing’s YouTube channel to watch the World’s Cleanest Race in its entirety.
For more information, please visit the official Red Bull Singapore website, its social media pages (TikTok | Instagram | Facebook), and Oracle Red Bull Racing’s official TikTok account.