When Formula 1 rolls into Singapore, the city comes alive in a way few places can match. The skyline gleams under the floodlights, the streets buzz with anticipation, and fans from across the globe pour into Marina Bay for one of the sport’s most electrifying weekends. Since its debut in 2008, the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix has become synonymous with glamour, endurance, and pure spectacle — a defining fixture on the racing calendar and the undisputed home of night racing.
Speaking with VAVEL, Jean Ng from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) reflected on how the event has evolved beyond motorsport into a symbol of Singapore’s ambition and creativity. Over the years, the night race has grown into a cornerstone of the nation’s tourism strategy — a major economic catalyst and a shining example of Singapore’s ability to deliver world-class experiences with precision and flair.
Few events encapsulate Singapore’s global appeal as vividly as the Grand Prix. The race’s impact, Jean explained, goes well beyond the spectacle of cars speeding through the city at 300km/h.
“The Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix has had a significant economic impact on Singapore. The race has attracted more than 720,000 international visitors and generated more than S$2.2 billion in incremental tourism receipts across industries such as hospitality, F&B, attractions and retail since its debut in 2008. This boosts our lifestyle and hospitality businesses, while also providing employment opportunities for locals.”
Beyond the fanfare of race weekend, the Grand Prix has become a vital driver of local enterprise. According to Jean, more than 700 Singapore-based companies are subcontracted annually to support the event, spanning sectors such as logistics, transport, construction, and engineering.
“Beyond the tourism sector, the race has also benefited many Singapore companies that are involved in different aspects of the race. Local businesses involved in the race preparations and operations have also reaped economic benefits and built capabilities, while gaining exposure and new business opportunities.”
In other words, the event is more than a tourism success story — it’s a platform for economic participation, skill-building, and national branding.
- Standing out in a crowded global calendar
With new cities joining the F1 circuit every year, Singapore faces intense competition for attention. Yet the Marina Bay night race continues to hold its ground as one of the most iconic events on the calendar.
“The Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix was the first night race in F1 history, first street circuit in Asia, and a pioneer in terms of blending the excitement of racing with entertainment,” Jean explained. “It remains a premium F1 experience that goes beyond just the race, blending the unique night race format with a world-class entertainment lineup and a proven track record of delivering exceptional performances – all within the iconic Marina Bay Street Circuit.”
Over the past 15 editions, Singapore has earned a reputation among fans, drivers, and teams as one of the season’s must-attend races. That appeal is only set to grow, as Jean confirmed that Singapore will become one of only six circuits worldwide to host an F1 Sprint in 2026.
“We remain confident that the F1 Singapore Grand Prix will continue to be a favourite for both locals and visitors for years to come.”
- Extending the buzz beyond the track
The Singapore Tourism Board’s strategy goes beyond the race itself. Through the Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS), the excitement spills across the city in a celebration that fuses motorsport with lifestyle, music, fashion, and food.
“A key component is the Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS), which brings the race atmosphere beyond the circuit through an all-encompassing season of race-themed lifestyle offerings,” Jean said. “Driven by STB and our stakeholders ranging from dining and entertainment to retail, GPSS offers curated experiences that cater to all ages and interests, allowing locals and visitors to experience the F1 buzz throughout the city, while showcasing this marquee event on a global stage.”
This year’s lineup stretched across multiple districts, offering something for everyone.
“This year, we continue to extend the race excitement to various parts of Singapore in the form of GPSS Headliners: Jam Off at Sentosa; GrooveDriver Festival at Marina Central (Suntec City, South Beach, and Millenia Walk); and Hit the Apex at CQ @ Clarke Quay; and PERFORMA: Singapore’s First Premium Retail Gallery at Plaza Singapura,” Jean shared. “Beyond the larger-scale GPSS Headliners, we also welcomed 16 new programme partners adding fresh offerings at different locations across Singapore – ranging from homegrown establishments like New Bahru, Tanglin Gin and Love Bonito, to international brands such as Moët & Chandon, Adidas and Glenfiddich.”
From live music and pop-up festivals to brand collaborations, GPSS transforms the race into a citywide celebration that invites everyone — not just ticket holders — to join the festivities.
- Beyond the weekend: Year-round impact
The Singapore Grand Prix’s influence extends long after the chequered flag falls. The event’s global broadcast — reaching over a billion viewers between 2008 and 2024 — continues to showcase Singapore as a destination for both leisure and business.
“Major events like the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix elevate Singapore’s profile on the international stage and make us a compelling destination to visit for leisure and business,” Jean said. “The Singapore race builds lasting destination awareness and supports Singapore’s tourism appeal year-round.”
The race has also become a magnet for the international business community. Around 25 MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) events are typically clustered around race week — including the Milken Institute Asia Summit, TOKEN2049, All That Matters, and the Founders Family Office Forum.
“The Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix remains a strong draw for business events,” Jean added. “It demonstrates Singapore’s capabilities in delivering complex, large-scale events with precision and flair. The ability to transform our city streets into a race track reinforces our reputation as a trusted, efficient and forward-thinking city.”
This blend of sport, business, and entertainment underscores Singapore’s broader value proposition — a global hub where ideas and experiences converge seamlessly.
While the race remains a highlight of the calendar, Jean noted that it sits within a larger vision to keep Singapore’s tourism offerings constantly refreshed.
“Beyond the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, Singapore maintains a year-round calendar of exciting leisure events and offers a constant refresh of unique and diverse offerings for visitors to enjoy a meaningful and memorable time in Singapore,” she said. “This includes high-profile live entertainment performances this year by international artistes like Lady Gaga and Blackpink, major sporting events including the World Aquatics Championships and Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, and family-friendly attractions such as the new Rainforest Wild Asia, the rebranded Bird Paradise, and Gardens by the Bay’s regularly refreshed installations.”
Looking ahead, STB is investing in long-term developments that will sustain momentum well into the future.
“We will continue to strengthen our position as a leading destination for leisure and business travel through major long-term developments,” Jean revealed. “This includes expansions of our integrated resorts Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, the upcoming Porsche Experience Centre in 2027 for car enthusiasts, and a wellness attraction at the Marina South Coastal site.”
The Singapore Grand Prix remains one of Formula 1’s most distinctive and enduring showcases — a night race that reflects Singapore’s energy, efficiency, and ambition. For STB, it’s not just a race weekend; it’s a statement of what the city can deliver.
As Jean summed up, the event’s success lies in its balance of spectacle and substance — a testament to Singapore’s ability to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of global tourism.