F1: Singapore GP attendance exceeded expectations

As multicolored fireworks illuminated the Marina Bay skyline at the 2023 F1 Singapore Airlines Singapore GP, race organizers were once again all smiles.

And the fans lapped it up, as once again the Singapore Grand Prix proved to be a hit with locals and overseas visitors, attracting a near sell-out crowd of 264,108 over the three-day race weekend.

The turnout was larger than the 250,000 spectators expected by race promoters Singapore GP, though it was lower than the record 302,000 in 2022. The drop was due to the redevelopment of The Float @ Marina Bay.

In a sign of continuing strong demand, Singapore GP announced on Sunday that the Super Early Bird tickets for the 2024 race have sold out, despite going on sale only 72 hours earlier.

But perhaps the attraction of the Singapore Grand Prix was best explained by 2009 F1 world champion Jenson Button, who was a guest speaker at the Time100 awards event, which honored those who have made an impact in their respective industries.

He told The Straits Times: “During the day, there are a lot of people here for practice and qualifying. But when the sun goes down, it is suddenly a party event. There are so many different places around the track around the city that really cater towards a fun weekend. There is so much action and excitement around the city. It is probably the best race you can come to.”