Singapore GP circuit changes revealed

Ewan Gale
Wednesday 19 October 2022 12:05 - Updated: 11:52

Singapore Grand Prix organisers have announced temporary changes to the circuit layout from next season to accommodate developments next to the track.

The Marina Bay circuit will lose around 10-to-20 seconds of lap time when the changes are made, with the layout bypassing turns 16 to 19.

This means that the track will now skip the famous Bay Grandstand area of the circuit, where cars pass underneath supporters.

The section of track was also the location of controversy at the inaugural Singapore Grand Prix, when Nelson Piquet Jr deliberately crashed to assist Renault and Fernando Alonso in taking the race victory.

Organisers have explained that the redevelopment of 'The Float at Marina Bay' into 'NS Square 1', set to be a community and events venue, is scheduled to start in March, with completion expected by the end of 2026.

This leaves the revised circuit spanning 4.928km, allowing for an increase in the number of laps in the grand prix up to 63.

Changes will need ratification from the FIA before taking shape on the calendar, with the organisers suggesting further information will be at hand over the coming months.

Sergio Perez won this year's running of the race, having held off Charles Leclerc in treacherous wet-to-dry conditions.