Slow Singapore GP  F1 ticket sales

UPDATE Race promoters Singapore GP have so far sold about 60,000 of the 80,000 tickets released. When asked if attendances could hit the 100,000 mark, Mr. Iswaran said: 'Probably if we can achieve a number close to that, it would already be a very positive outcome in the context of this year.' With the recession hitting pockets and giants like Ferrari and McLaren having mediocre seasons, the glamour sport has struggled to pull in the crowds. Other F1 host cities have also been hit hard by the downturn.

08/05/09 With less than two months to go till this year's Formula One night race, organizer Singapore GP has admitted that ticket sales are still sluggish.

About 76 per cent of the corporate hospitality tickets have been sold so far, according to Singapore GP. It is also banking on overseas interests to fill the seats, with regional advertising ramped up by 30 per cent.

Singapore GP senior consultant Harry Apostolides said on Wednesday that sales have so far lagged behind last year's numbers, but could not give specific figures.

Mr. Apostolides, however, said he is confident that the crowds will be here come Sept 25, when the cars take to the Marina Bay street circuit once again.

There are already signs that things are revving up. 'We are seeing corporate bookings beginning to pick up, and the Paddock Club is filling up as well,' he said.

About 76 per cent of the corporate hospitality tickets have been sold so far, according to Singapore GP. It is also banking on overseas interests to fill the seats, with regional advertising ramped up by 30 per cent.

Mr. Apostolides also said Singapore GP has received package inquiries from 100 foreign travel agents this year, double the number last year. He added that requests are coming in from farther afield as well, such as the Middle East and South Africa.