Under the bright lights of the Marina Bay Circuit, the Singapore Grand Prix is always a highly anticipated event for F1 fans. Often considered one of the most glamorous destinations on the F1 calendar, along with Monaco and Las Vegas, it’s a spectacle unlike any other. As a street circuit, the track takes drivers on a tour of incredible skyscrapers, the iconic Anderson Bridge, and the imposing Singapore Flyer observation wheel. However, instead of a leisurely open-top bus tour, drivers are squeezed into modern-day Formula One cars, reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h. Temperatures inside the cockpit soar up to 60°C, with an ambient temperature of 40°C, making Singapore one of the most challenging circuits on the F1 calendar. The gruelling heat, combined with high humidity and 23 corners — more than any other current track — truly tests the drivers’ endurance.

Skyscrapers, speed and surprises

With a new alteration to the layout and the addition of another DRS (Drag Reduction System) zone, bringing the total to four, drivers can now add around 20 km/h to their speed when within one second of the car in front. The Singapore GP is a race few would want to miss. Since its return in 2008 at Marina Bay, the race has consistently delivered drama and intensity. From the infamous “Crashgate” saga, where Nelson Piquet Jr. deliberately crashed to help his teammate Fernando Alonso secure the maiden victory at the track, the event has been full of unforgettable moments.

After a commanding win in Azerbaijan, Oscar Piastri will be aiming for his third career victory. The in-form Australian hopes to close the gap on his teammate Lando Norris, who himself had a fantastic recovery drive to finish fourth, and leapfrog Charles Leclerc into third place overall in the Drivers’ World Championship standings.

Street circuit that never disappoints

McLaren has managed to achieve something they haven’t done since 2014 when drivers Jenson Button and Kevin Magnussen led the team to the top spot in the Constructors’ World Championship. Now, they lead again, overtaking a faltering Red Bull and creating a 20-point gap at the top. Further down the grid, James Vowles’ decision to terminate Logan Sargeant’s contract seems to be paying off. Both Alex Albon and new recruit Franco Colapinto scored points, finishing P7 and P8 respectively. Over at Haas F1, it appears they’ve made the right pick for their 2025 driver line-up, with Ollie Bearman impressing once again, scoring a solitary point in 10th place. Sergio Perez’s form may have improved in recent races, but his luck certainly hasn’t. Despite a promising run in Azerbaijan, he and Carlos Sainz collided just a lap from the finish.

Last year, Sainz triumphed in Marina Bay, becoming the only non-Red Bull driver to win a race in a season dominated by Max Verstappen. However, this year has seen a wider variety of winners, with six different victors in the last eight races. Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull have all claimed multiple wins, making this season one to remember for its unpredictability and high drama.

Singapore Grand Prix takes off on Sunday 22 September 2024, at 1pm BST

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