F1 eyeing up potential Singapore double-header

F1 is considering the possibility of staging two races in Singapore as a back-up plan to cover the axed Russian Grand Prix.

CEO Stefano Domenicali's preference is for the sport to head to Qatar for the first event of a triple-header later this year that also includes Singapore and Japan.

Russia was set to host the September 23-25 race but its contract was pulled by F1 in the wake of the country's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.

Qatar has long been the frontrunner to step into the breach after its circuit in Losail made a successful debut last year.

Despite signing a 10-year contract, the country opted against staging a race this year given its preparations for the World Cup.

But an approach from F1 about filling the void, given the date of the race two months ahead of the start of the tournament, was initially met favourably.

Doubts have since emerged, however, not least is the searing temperatures as the average high across September is just shy of 39 degrees.

While the race start time would be late evening, temperatures are still in the low 30s.

Despite the World Cup not starting until November 21, it is understood officials also have concerns about staging such a major international event relatively close to football's showpiece occasion when its focus should be centred on that.

It has led Domenicali to formulate a reserve plan, with Singapore on the cards for back-to-back races which would operate at different start times.

Its current date of October 2, with Singapore to return after a three-year gap given the cancellation of the last two races due to the coronavirus pandemic, would retain its traditional 8pm night-race start for which it has become renowned.

If it also hosted an additional race the week before, the current plan is for that to be a dusk event.

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