‘Why Singapore is the Best Grand Prix on the F1 Calendar’

A proud Netflix Drive to Survive convert, Shevon has been to the last three consecutive grand prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit and had her fair share of experiences both as a fan and a volunteer marshal.

“I started watching Drive to Survive during lockdown in 2021, and it kind of got me through it,” she says.

“I remember feeling super low and not motivated, my life and the world was totally in a limbo and there wasn’t anything exciting or new until I stumbled upon this driving documentary on Netflix.

“What really drew me in was the tenacity and resilience each driver has and the number of sacrifices, not just them, but their entire family make, just to make their dream a reality. It is really commendable.”

There’s No Other Race Like Singapore

Like many fans, the Singapore Grand Prix is high on my motorsport bucket list.

“The Singapore night race is not like any other,” Shevon begins.

“The whole city stops and effectively turns into a carnival for the weekend. The lead up to the weekend makes it extra special when the track is finally lit up Friday night, and you hear the loud roar of the hybrid engines and see your favourite drivers rocking their extra shimmery helmets for the very first time.

“Nothing beats the feeling of finally seeing your favourite cars that you watch weekly on television in person and cheering along with thousands of others just like you.”

“I Love Seeing F1 Fans Start to Appear”

Although this year’s race is early October, the month of September is known as “Grand Prix season” in Singapore.

“Every year, I look forward to September when the city center is slowly transformed into the coolest racetrack, ever.

Grandstand by grandstand, crash barrier by crash barrier, the heart of my country is converted into the very track of my favourite sport. An already beautiful country is transformed into something so bright, albeit warm, shiny and unforgettable!

“My absolute favourite part of the season is when you start spotting tourists decked in Formula 1 merch, showing up bit by bit. Their excitement and enthusiasm are the best indication that the Singapore night race is almost here. After all, sport is meant to bring people together.”

It’s so true, with Shevon also adding that she hopes that all fans get to experience those silent few seconds as you wait for the five lights to go out: “it’s so addictive”.

A Magical Moment from Marina Bay

After attending as a fan in 2022, Shevon applied as a marshal for the next year’s race and was successful. We wouldn’t be able to go racing without the help of the incredible dedication from those in orange trackside, and the opportunity gave Shevon so many memories.

“Every year, the Singapore Grand Prix allows citizens to participate as volunteers. I decided to try it out, applied in 2023, and miraculously got in! I was a flag marshal, and my post was at the starting line.

“It was a great once in a lifetime experience, contributing even just a little back to my favourite sport, and making a bunch of new friends that can relate to you after any race.”

Otherwise, the grandstands offer excellent coverage for fans. Shevon has watched from several viewpoints, stating each was special in their own way.

“The Connaught Grandstand, in my opinion, is the most value for money seat-wise. It is located on the inside of Turn 14 but it offers great views of Turn 8 too, so two views for the price of one! There’s a giant television right in the middle of the grandstand so you will be able to keep track of what’s happening elsewhere too.”

The Must-Pack Essentials for Fans

Singapore can get very hot and humid, with drivers losing almost 3kg in body weight over a race distance. Therefore, it’s important to plan accordingly and make sure you stay safe in the sticky climate!

“There are plenty of water stands around the circuit and we are allowed to bring in empty water bottles. Do remember to refill your bottles during a session break! Another trick I learnt while marshaling is to stock up and buy isotonic drinks too.

“Most of the entrances and exits to the circuit are located strategically right beside malls too. If the heat gets to you, I suggest exiting the circuit during session breaks and hanging out in the air-conditioned malls.”

Sudden storms can also arrive, which caused a delay to the race start in 2022. Unfortunately, Shevon has been caught out by this extreme weather during her many trips to the circuit.

“I’ve had my fair share of unrepairable muddy sneakers. Please remember to wear an old and cheap pair of sneakers instead of something new and expensive, especially if you intend to go into the Padang field as it will be muddy, even if it’s not raining.”

Spending Time in Singapore

The Republic of Singapore is both an island country and city-state, with one of the most famous skylines around.

There is so much to see and do, from trying a Singapore Sling cocktail or going for a drop in an iconic infinity pool.

“We are a small city but there’s plenty to do here apart from the race,” Shevon explains.

“I would recommend everyone to walk along the Singapore River and just take in how beautiful the Singapore skyline is on a chilled evening.

“For you all adrenaline seekers, try the world’s tallest dueling roller coasters - Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studios Singapore!”

With the sessions running late into the night, and the lights not set to go out until 20:00 local time on Sunday, it can sometimes mean switching to late evening restaurant runs for a bite to eat.

“Food is a huge part of our culture, popular dishes like Chicken Rice and Chilli Crab are a must try!

“We are huge on our boba tea too, so do remember to grab a cup of Chagee or Koi when you’re here too!”