The Grand Prix may be Singapore’s biggest event on the social calendar but it’s still going to make some adjustments for the upcoming NS Square.
The famous street circuit will see some changes for the 2023 season to accommodate the construction of NS Square. This means that Turns 16 to 19 of the track layout will be re-aligned to a straight and the entire course will be reduced to 4.928km.
🚨 The Marina Bay Street Circuit will be updated from 2023 due to the redevelopment of The Float at Marina Bay into “NS Square”. The #F1 #SingaporeGP track will be reduced to 4.928km with Turns 16 to 19 re-aligned into a straight. More info at https://t.co/b54sENWDYu pic.twitter.com/YUpqwL6MFg
— SingaporeGP (@F1NightRace) October 19, 2022
The shorter track will now result in 63 laps that the drivers will have to navigate, instead of the previous 61. Currently, the changes are subject to the approval of world motorsport governing body Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). Further information will be released when the changes are finalised.
A shorter track and a new straight might benefit the drivers on what is infamously known as the toughest circuit on the race calendar. Removing said turns will also mean losing the Bay Grandstand, a popular seating option for racegoers.
Some fans on Twitter have also expressed their excitement about the change, while some mourned the loss of a good vantage point.
Meanwhile, NS Square will replace The Float @ Marina Bay and is set to become a central focus of Singapore’s downtown. The spot will be a community and events venue that includes a gallery, swimming pool with views of the bay and a water sports centre.
It is slated to be completed by 2025.
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