If the first decade is any indication, the 2018 Singapore Grand Prix promises to be one spectacular show

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August 27, 2018

In 2008, the world witnessed what is arguably the most dramatic change in the Formula 1 calendar, the inaugural race of the Singapore Grand Prix. The race wasn’t just another leg for the sport but added color and spectacle as it was the world’s very first F1 night race.

A decade after, the thrill of coming to Singapore to watch high-speed racing action under the flood lights and the night sky continues in the Lion City. But what exactly makes the Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix so exciting, you ask?

It could be the drama that goes with each race. Remember the inaugural race back in 2008 when Felipe Massa got “hosed” after a pitstop on Lap 12? He had taken pole after a blazing qualifying session the night before. But no thanks to an error that saw him leave the pits even before refueling was completed and taking the fuel hose with him, he lost time and ended up in 13th  place  at the end of the race.

Then there was the truly close finish that happened in 2010 between Fernando Alonso’s Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel’s Red Bull. The penultimate lap saw Vettel catch up to the rear wing of Alonso and stalk him for the remaining 23 tuns. Despite this, the Spaniard held his ground and the result was a heart-pounding 0.293 second difference between the two as the checkered flag was waved. This was one for the record books.

If you thought these moments were dramatic, wait til you reminisce about the gearbox failure Lewis Hamilton experienced on Lap 23 of the 2012 Singapore Grand Prix. Yes, he was leading the race when it happened. Yet it was more than just a mechanical issue that cost him the race and points for the World Championship. It was the straw that broke the camel’s back, so to speak, as it was his cue to move from McLaren, a team that nurtured him from the beginning, to Mercedes-Benz. The new chapter in his racing career saw him go on to win three World Championships and even more victories with his enw team.

Apart from the drama, the Singapore Grand Prix is also known for being one of the most spectacular races on the calendar. Proof of this are highlights like Mark Webbr “hitching” a ride with Fernando Alonso’ back to the its after the Australian’s Red Bull’s engine had failed on the last lap of the 2013 race. And who can forget the four-way mishap between Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel, McLaren’s Fernando Alonso, and Red Bull’s Max Verstapen on the opening lap of the 2017 race—even before getting past the first corner?

Yes, its moments like these that have made the first decade of the Singapore Grand Prix truly special. And this year’s event, which is slated for September 14-16, 2018 promises to be no exception. Fans who will trek to Singapore from all corners of the globe are in for a treat as intense racing action will be complemented by entertainment from some of the hottest musical acts today. It promises to be a spectacle you won’t soon forget.

Learn more about the 2018 Singapore Grand Prix by logging on to http://singaporegp.sg/ or http://www.redrocktravelph.com/ . You may likewise contact Red Rock Travel at 0917-8267531.

Special thanks to: US Racer Magazine

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.