What IF the lights go off mid-race in Singapore? Stories with Steve Slater

Have you ever wondered, what IF the lights go off mid-race at the Marina Bay Circuit? How does a driver reorient himself with the direction of the race after a spin? 

Well, it's race week for the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix. We've got some of the best Singapore Grand Prix stories with Steve Slater, the 'voice of F1' for Star Sports, Fox Sports and many more.

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Soumil Arora and Kunal Shah are in conversation with Steve Slater, who was a consultant with the Singapore Grand Prix organisers for several years.

Why are so many corners 90-degrees? Why is the Singapore Grand Prix a 'night race'?

Yes, lots of fun questions and insights from Steve himself.

Tune in!

(Season 2023, Episode 47)

Follow our hosts on Twitter: Steve Slater, Soumil Arora and Kunal Shah

Image courtesy: Red Bull Content Pool

**Summary of the Inside Line F1 Podcast Episode 47:**

- The episode delves into the intricacies of the Singapore Grand Prix, a night race held on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.


- Steve Slater, a veteran F1 commentator and consultant for the Singapore GP, joins the podcast to share his insights and experiences.


- **Lighting and Track Design:**
- The unique lighting system of the Marina Bay Circuit is discussed, with its strategically placed projectors that illuminate different sections of the track, providing drivers with orientation and creating a distinctive light and shadow effect.
- The careful planning and negotiations involved in establishing the street circuit are highlighted, considering factors such as minimizing disruption to businesses and maximizing the showcase of Singapore's landmarks.
- The challenges of setting up and dismantling the circuit within a short timeframe are mentioned, including the remarkable feat of completing the process by 6 am the following morning.


- **The Singapore GP Experience:**
- The unique atmosphere of the Singapore GP is attributed to its city-center location, allowing for easy access via public transportation.
- The vibrant hospitality scene, with its luxurious suites and top-notch culinary offerings, is a major attraction for race attendees.
- The iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, with its rooftop bar overlooking the circuit, is mentioned as a prime spot to witness the race.


- **Steve Slater's Involvement:**
- Steve Slater shares his experiences working with the Singapore GP organizers and Star Sports TV, providing live coverage and commentary for the races.
- He recalls the excitement of witnessing the first F1 car on track during the inaugural Singapore GP in 2008, driven by Giancarlo Fisichella in a Force India.


- **Controversies and Memorable Moments:**
- The infamous "Crashgate" incident during the 2008 Singapore GP is briefly discussed, highlighting the manipulation of the race to benefit Fernando Alonso.
- Steve Slater shares his involvement in bringing a Ferrari Formula One show car to the Marina Bay Sands hotel, requiring careful disassembly and reassembly to fit it into the freight elevator.


- **Unique Challenges of Working at a Race:**
- The demanding nature of working during a race weekend is emphasized, with commentators and journalists often watching the race on TV screens rather than directly from the track.
- The post-race atmosphere is described as a sensory overload, with the heat, humidity, and vibrant lights creating a distinctive ambiance.
- The late-night work hours for journalists, who must file their reports and conduct interviews after the race, are mentioned.


- **Additional Insights:**
- Drivers taking ice baths in dustbins after the race is mentioned as a common practice to aid in recovery.
- Steve Slater highlights the importance of the Singapore GP as a showcase event for the country, attracting high-net-worth individuals from around the world. # Inside Line F1 Podcast: Singapore Grand Prix Special with Steve Slater

## Introduction

- The Singapore Grand Prix is a unique and challenging race on the Formula One calendar.
- It is the only night race on the calendar and is held on a street circuit in the heart of Singapore.

## History and Evolution of the Singapore Grand Prix

- The Singapore Grand Prix was first held in 2008 and has been a popular event ever since.
- The race is known for its stunning city backdrop, challenging circuit, and exciting atmosphere.
- The race has been won by some of the biggest names in Formula One, including Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, and Fernando Alonso.

## Challenges and Uniqueness of the Singapore Grand Prix

- The Singapore Grand Prix is a challenging race for drivers due to its tight and twisty layout and the high temperatures and humidity.
- The race is also known for its unpredictable weather conditions, which can make it difficult for drivers to maintain grip and control.
- The race is also unique in that it is held at night, which creates a unique and atmospheric experience for fans.

## Memorable Moments from the Singapore Grand Prix

- The Singapore Grand Prix has produced many memorable moments over the years.
- Some of the most memorable moments include Fernando Alonso's emotional victory in 2010, Nico Rosberg's win in 2016 on his 200th Grand Prix start, and Kevin Magnussen's fastest lap in the last two Grands Prix.

## Singapore Grand Prix as a Model for Future Street Circuits

- The Singapore Grand Prix has been a successful event and has served as a model for other street circuits around the world.
- The race has shown that it is possible to hold a Formula One race in a city center and that these races can be both exciting and safe.
- The success of the Singapore Grand Prix has led to other cities expressing interest in hosting Formula One races.

## Conclusion

- The Singapore Grand Prix is a unique and challenging race that has become a popular event on the Formula One calendar.
- The race has produced many memorable moments over the years and has served as a model for other street circuits around the world.
- The future of the Singapore Grand Prix is bright, and it is likely to continue to be a popular event for many years to come.