As the countdown begins to the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2023, racing aficionados and party enthusiasts alike can look forward to thrilling action, glamour, and glitz. Get ready to witness the most spectacular celebrations of Formula 1 in the heart of Singapore !
Prepare for an electrifying extravaganza as the Lion City gears up to host the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2023. The race is set to be held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from the 15th – 17th of September and the Grand Prix Season Singapore from the 8th – 17th of September when Singapore will be transformed into an adrenaline-pumping, vibrant, glitzy playground of celebrations.
The city-state’s love for Formula 1 is evident, as the 2022 edition witnessed a record turnout of 302,000 race fans. Spectators are in for an adrenaline-filled experience at the Marina Bay Street Circuit – renowned for its challenging course – as they witness the world’s top drivers battling it out under dazzling lights. At the first-ever night race in the history of Formula 1, witness household names like Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton pushing their limits as they compete to be on the podium of the Formula 1 Singapore circuit.
The off-track celebrations will be on a grand scale, adding to the excitement at the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, with live music performances by pop legends Robbie Williams, Jackson Wang and Post Malone as well as legendary rock band Kings of Leon and electronic music duo Groove Armada (D) set.
The Grand Prix Season in Singapore, beyond the racing action, offers island-wide celebrations with four precinct parties where admission is free :
Shop for local artisanal products at the Orchard Pit Shops : GPSS Lifestyle Bazaar, Orchard
Watch gamers battle it out at the Teleios Race Grand Slam at Clarke Quay
Dance the night away with two music zones for fans of house and electronic rave, and pop and hip-hoppers at Kampong Gelam
Enjoy F&B and shopping along the Siloso Beachwalk Bazaar at Sentosa
Executive director for sports and wellness at the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Ms Ong Ling Lee, re-affirmed the commitment to collaborate with all partners involved to ensure the success of the event.
The full entertainment line-up for the event was unveiled on 12th July, by race organizers and features renowned acts such as American band Kings Of Leon and British groups Culture Club, in addition to previously announced headlining performers American rapper-singer Post Malone, Groove Armada, and Madness, and English pop star Robbie Williams.
Mr. Ong Beng Seng is best known as the man who brought Formula One to Singapore and is renowned as the exclusive shareholder of the Singapore GP, serving as the organizer of this annual sporting event forming part of the Formula One World Championship. Mr. Ong secured the deal to bring the prestigious Formula One race to Singapore in 2007 which was primarily due to his rapport with former Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone.
Contract to host the F1 Singapore GP night race through 2028 extended
Last year, Singapore GP, backed by Mr Ong and the Singapore Tourism Board, extended the contract of the city-state to host the F1 night race through 2028 being the fourth and longest contract renewal, with previous deals ranging between 4 and 5 years.
The renewal, which involves substantial costs of approximately S$150 million annually, has sparked debates on the value of hosting the event, with the government covering 60% of the expenses.
The race has undoubtedly put the Lion City on the global map and promoted its entertainment facilities in Sentosa.
Other exciting activities include the Singapore Pub Crawl, starting from the dive bar Mogambo in Boat Quay, where participants get to explore the vibrant nightlife scene of the city, enjoying race-themed cocktails like the Singapore Sling, Chendol, and Iced Milo. The MINT Museum of Toys is a must-visit during the Grand Prix Season for enthusiasts of both motorsports and vintage toys. Visitors can view a collection of rare and vintage toy cars modelled after famous Grand Prix racing cars from the 1950s to the 1970s.
Mr Iswaran, the former Minister for Trade from 2015-2018, said that the decision to host Formula One for another seven years came after thoroughly evaluating the long-term benefits that such an extension could bring to Singapore.
The Tourism Board stated that the race attracts approximately 350,000 visitors annually while generating hundreds of millions in receipts and sales.
