Singapore’s Marina Bay area looks stunning anyway. Add to that 20 F1 cars racing through the centre of the city at night and you have the Singapore Grand Prix; an event that can rival anything for spectacle.

The race has solidified its place as a blue riband event in the F1 season. It comes replete with all the glitz and glamour that earns the venue a reputation as the Asian counterpart to Monaco as the ‘jewel in the F1 crown.’

The Lion City is in full swing come Grand Prix time. There are F1 parties attracting the rich and famous and a concert that has seen the likes of Bon Jovi, The Killers and Katy Perry take to the stage. After the race, Marina Bay lights up with a fireworks display that seems to get grander every year.

The tight Singapore track might not encourage much overtaking but it is a circuit where a driver’s raw talent makes all the difference. Physically, it’s the toughest race of the year — heat, humidity, 80 gear changes per lap and immense g-forces under heavy breaking all take their toll.

Being there to appreciate their skill in threading a car between the barriers is thrilling. Everything else is just the cherry on the cake.

Singapore Grand Prix F1 Spectator Tips

• Singapore has some of the best food and beverage stalls available to humanity – Grand Prix going humanity that is. Most accept card payments but bringing some cash too is advisable.
• Zone 1 is quite a walk from the Padang Stage. You can get there easier and faster by taking the MRT. Exit the circuit by gate 1A or 1B and take the train from Nicoll Highway station to City Hall station (exit A). Use gates 3A or 3B to get back into the circuit.
• Spinning wheels aren’t just for the race track. Take a ride on the Singapore Flyer and get your weekend off to a flying start. The giant Ferris wheel is a great way to orientate yourself to the layout of the circuit as well as take in stunning views of the city.
• One of the best ways to keep informed of what’s happening out on track is good old-fashioned radio. Tune in to 102FM for live commentary (in English) of all the action.
• Singapore’s spectacular firework display is best seen from the waterfront beside the Esplanade (Zone 4), the Bay Grandstand (Zone 3) and the Helix bridge (Zone 2).

Essentials

Language

English, Mandarin, Tamil & Malay

Currency

Singapore Dollar $ (SGD)

Time Zone

UTC+8

Electicity

230V, 50Hz (UK plug)

It might be night time but don’t expect anything other than blisteringly hot, humid, sweaty, sticky…well you get the idea. Wear light clothing, stay hydrated and try not to move around too much.

About Me

I’m Danny, an incurable Formula 1 fan for over 30 years and founder of The F1 Spectator. My aim is to inform and inspire, arming you with helpful tips and advice for your next F1 trip.

Follow @thef1spectator

featured image: © chensiyuan | WIKIMEDIA