Fans, businesses shift into high gear for F1 Singapore Grand Prix

SINGAPORE: During the two-year Singapore Formula One Grand Prix hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, superfan Adam Amir would visit parts of the Marina Bay Circuit and reminisce about past races.

"During that time, I've just been visiting the track, saying what could have been with my friends,” recalled the 22-year-old, laughing.

His love affair with the sport started when he was just eight years old.

This year, Mr Amir, who has attended every race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit since 2013, made sure to secure his tickets early for the return of the F1 Grand Prix in Singapore.

“I'm really looking forward to the track action, the sounds, the smell of the fuel and everything,” he told CNA.

This year’s event, which will be held from Sep 30 to Oct 2, is expected to see its biggest turnout since its inaugural race in 2008 - and organisers are anticipating tickets to sell out.

Ticket sales have already exceeded that of 2019, the last time the race was held in Singapore, Transport Minister S Iswaran said last month. That year, the race drew 268,000 spectators.

Businesses, particularly those in hospitality and events, are also gearing up for an influx of tourists and increased activities celebrating Singapore's biggest event since the pandemic.

While most restaurants near the race areas have been fully booked for months, some have just started taking reservations after waiting for official confirmation that diners can still access their venues on race days.

Picotin restaurant, located at The Fullerton Waterboat House and right in the middle of road closures, only released its bookings last Friday after being given the all-clear for customer access to its venue. 

The European bistro’s dining area boasts a view of Esplanade Drive, a prime