Formula 1 | F1 drivers expect ‘toughest race of the year’ in Singapore

While Formula 1 drivers are eagerly awaiting their sport’s return to Singapore for the first time in three years, they recognize it could prove an even more grueling race than usual.

F1 will race at the Marina Bay circuit for the first time since 2019, with the last two editions of the Singapore Grand Prix having been canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

It has the reputation of being one of the toughest races in F1. Although held at night, the ambient temperatures remained high, as did the humidity, extreme conditions for the pilots for almost two hours, with a high level of concentration to be maintained on a bumpy track, between the walls.

And it is the bumps that could make this edition particularly painful given the stiffer suspension used by the current generation of F1, equipped with 18 inches with lower sides and therefore less absorbent.

For Pierre Gasly, who was ill before the Italian Grand Prix, « You will have to sleep well on the spot, not let yourself be disturbed by the jet lag and get back into physical shape after each day of driving. »

« We know it’s very extreme conditions. The bumps might hurt us with those stiff F1s. But it’s a track I like, honestly. I love this place, I’ve been missing this place for the past few years. years and I can’t wait to go. »

Carlos Sainz predicts a very tough round in Singapore.

« It’s going to be a tough race, both mentally and physically with the bumps and the heat, the rebounds. I think it will be the toughest race of the year. It will be worse than the Azerbaijan Grand Prix for bumps, in terms of porpoising and bouncing it could show up again. »

“It will also be a huge challenge to get a good lap in qualifying with a good set-up for the race with the amount of rebounds there are in these F1s on these kinds of tracks.

Esteban Ocon fears the bumps above all else.

« It’s going to be very bumpy with these F1s, a big challenge for us I think, very tough physically. I love Singapore, but the track itself is not my favorite I must say. These F1s are stiff as karts and curbs it’s going to be tricky. It’s not going to be fun all the time but we’re up for the challenge. »

« It’s going to be interesting also to see who chooses what in terms of set-up. If you go for a car that’s sound and easy or if you go for a sharper car but gives a bit more performance, it’s always a compromised on an urban circuit. »