With the European race season having concluded with the Italian Grand Prix just over a week and a half ago the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team now heads to Singapore this weekend for the first of the run of races outside Europe that will complete the calendar.
One of the most popular events on the calendar, the Singapore Grand Prix offers glamour and excitement to spectators and teams alike. The race takes place at night and, with high temperatures and humidity, poses a unique challenge to the drivers.
Marcus Ericsson looks forward to returning to one of his favourite races of each season, while rookie Charles Leclerc will drive on the Marina Bay Street Circuit for the first time in his career.
The race comes as talk of Leclerc moving to Scuderia Ferrari for 2019 to replace Kimi Raikkonen has reached fever pitch with widespread speculation that the decision in favour was made during a board meeting held in Maranello last Thursday.
Held on the Marina Bay Street Circuit, it’s the second race of the season to be held at night. The grip conditions on this city track improve from session to session. The circuit has 23 corners – the most corners featured in any circuit on the calendar – which, in addition, are all low-speed.
The probability of the safety car being deployed is very high. Traction and braking dominate on this bumpy circuit. Due to its layout, overtaking is rather difficult, making a good starting position important.
Marcus Ericsson
“The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the highlights of each season. It is probably the most spectacular circuit to drive on, as it is located in the city centre and takes place at night. It is also one of the toughest races of the year, with extreme heat and humidity making it challenging to drive, both physically and mentally. As a team, we are eager to bounce back after a difficult weekend in Italy, and we are determined to fight for a good result again. I look forward to being back in Singapore.”
Charles Leclerc
“The circuit in Singapore will be completely new to me. I have done some simulator work on the track, but it will be a special experience to drive there in real life. It will also be my first real night race, which is exciting. I look forward to that very much. It is one of the most renowned and popular Grands Prix on the calendar, and it will be a pleasure to meet the fans there. The track looks interesting, and the city vibrant – I can’t wait for this race weekend to begin.”
Photos: Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team - 2018 FIA F1 World Championship
|
Italiaspeed provides daily independent news on the Italian auto industry, we keep free from any affiliations to bring you the facts. If you read Italiaspeed and like it please consider supporting us. |
|
|
